15 Arrests Across Harborough During Drink/Drug Drive Campaign

Fifteen drivers were arrested on Harborough’s road during Leicestershire Police’s latest drink and drug drive campaign.

Nine men and six women were found to be over the drink drive limit or under the influence of drugs when stopped by officers during August.

Arrests were made in Market Harborough, Kibworth, Saddington, Foxton, Thurnby, Tugby, Bitteswell, Frolesworth and Lutterworth.

The arrests made up 10% of the total number across Leicestershire, with 139 drivers charged last month which is 40% more than the average month.

27 drivers were arrested between 5am and 5pm, those aged 24 or under accounted for under a fifth of the arrests and a similar number were taken into custody following a crash.

Jonathan Clarkson, Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Road safety Partnership spokesperson said, “This is very disappointing news in terms of road safety, drink drug driving is one of the Fatal 4 offences along with mobile phone distraction, excessive speeding and not wearing seatbelts, which are major contributors to death and serious injury on our roads.”

“Getting behind the wheel when you are unfit to do so puts yourself, and the innocent lives of others at risk, and the consequences of a drink drug drive conviction can have long term effects such as a driving ban, a hefty fine, increased car insurance along with potentially losing your job and restrictions on overseas travel.”

“If you see someone who appears to be a drink or drug driver enter a vehicle to drive away, make a note of the registration plate and the direction of travel and call your local police on 101 or make a make a free and anonymous call to CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.”