Launch of Cleveland Police campaign to target those driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

A national campaign targeting those who drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs is being supported by Cleveland Police in the run up to Christmas through to the new year period.  

There will be additional focus on those who drive whilst under the influence of drink or drugs, as traditionally people may socialise more as the festive period begins.

Officers from Cleveland Police Matrix Team, response teams, neighbourhood teams and Cleveland Special Constabulary will carry out roadside stops throughout the campaign to ask drivers for voluntary samples of breath and saliva to test for alcohol and drugs.

Police will look to educate drivers and additionally there will be social media posts to help raise awareness of the consequences of drink and drug driving.

During the same campaign in December 2023, there were 137 arrests made of drivers suspected to be under the influence.

Temporary Inspector Scott Pearson, from Cleveland Police’s Matrix Team, said: “We always hope to have no positive results for drink or drug driving, however, sadly we know that a minority of drivers do take the risk by getting behind the wheel whilst under the influence.

“It takes just one person to choose to take that risk in order to cause a serious or fatal collision, which can have a devastating impact.

“By highlighting the consequences that drink and drug driving can have, we hope to encourage a change in people’s attitudes towards driving impaired, and reduce the number of serious and fatal collisions on our roads.”

Officers will be reminding those who drink alcohol or take drugs to be aware of their fitness to drive the next day; as alcohol and drugs can stay within someone’s system for a long time.

A/Inspector Pearson continued: “If any driver suspects that they may still be under the influence the morning after drinking or taking drugs, then it’s more than likely that they will be.

“Each person is affected differently by alcohol and drugs; depending on a number of factors including their weight, hydration, medication taken, food eaten, sleeping pattern etc.

“It’s simply not worth the risk and it’s a risk that could cost drivers more than just their licence and potentially their job….it could cost someone their life.”