Four arrested in Liverpool on suspicion of drink and drug driving
Merseyside Police begin Winter of Action campaign
Four people were arrested on suspicion of drink and drug driving in the early hours of Monday 1st December across Liverpool as Merseyside Police launched their Winter of Action campaign.
At around 2am, police received a report of a man suspected of being under the influence getting into a vehicle in the Wood Street area of Liverpool city centre.
The vehicle was later involved in a brief pursuit before colliding with a lamppost and wall on Argyle Street.
A 21-year-old man from Halewood was arrested on suspicion of drink driving; dangerous driving; failing to stop; and driving without a licence. He remains in custody for questioning.
Three other arrests were made overnight:
Shortly after midnight, a 62-year-old man from Liverpool was arrested on suspicion of drug driving after officers saw him driving at excess speed on Oakfield Road in Anfield.
At around 1.30am, a 30-year-old woman from Bootle was arrested on suspicion of drink driving after attempting to drive down a no-entry road on Sunbeam Road.
At the same time, a 32-year-old man from Walton was also arrested for drug driving after colliding with a pedestrian barrier on Princess Road.
Chief Inspector Stuart McIver from the Matrix Roads Policing team commented on the arrests, crediting members of the public for their assistance in responding to concerns about intoxicated drivers.
“It is encouraging to see a member of door staff in the area making an effort to contact us with their concerns about this driver, which allowed us to take swift action," he said.
“It is exactly the sort of attitude that will bring about lasting change. Challenging suspected drink and drug drivers will prevent death and serious injury on our roads. Our officers are highly trained and will recognise the signs of driving when intoxicated, as shown by the other arrests in the early hours.
“The harm caused by driving while under the influence are plain to see, from fatal and serious injuries caused by drivers, through to the impact it has on those arrested. Prison sentences; financial penalties and job loss - no night out is worth ruining your life for."
Winter of Action campaign
Monday marked the start of Merseyside Police's Winter of Action campaign, which aims to crack down on offences over the festive season, including drink and drug driving.
Chief Inspector McIver said roadside checks would be happening across the region throughout December and January.
“Part of the campaign is reiterating our commitment to addressing drink and drug driving, which we sadly know are likely to increase at this time of year. To see four arrests made so early on in December is disappointing to see, but we will keep highlighting the action being taken until this message sticks in people’s minds, before they and others feel the consequences of their recklessness," he added.
“These arrests show that, through officers, CCTV, partners and members of the public, such behaviour will be challenged and tackled.
“Nowhere, at any time of the year, is safe to drug or drink drive in Merseyside. We are always watching and always testing."