Road Safety Warning as Kent Driver Caught High on Cannabis and Cocaine
Kent Police are warning motorists of severe consequences for driving under the influence, following a case where a drug-impaired motorist was banned after being stopped near Blue Bell Hill.
The 24-year-old man, from the Isle of Sheppey, was pulled over on 19 January 2025 by a roads policing officer in an unmarked vehicle who suspected speeding. Upon being stopped, the man failed a roadside drug test, and officers discovered two bags of herbal cannabis in the glove compartment of his Mercedes.
Court Hears of Dual Drug Offence
Blood tests later confirmed the presence of both cannabis and cocaine, well above the legal limit. He was driving uninsured and had children in the car at the time – a factor noted by the court as aggravating.
At Medway Magistrates’ Court, the driver pleaded guilty to:
- Two counts of drug driving
- Possession of a class B drug
- Driving without insurance
On Friday 2 May 2025, he was sentenced to a 20-month driving ban, 130 hours of unpaid work, and ordered to pay court costs.
Police Issue Strong Warning
PC Lee Berridge of Kent Police stated:
“The presence of children in the car made this offence even more dangerous. Driving after consuming cannabis and cocaine shows a selfish disregard for life. The motorist should be ashamed.”
The force’s April road safety campaign targeted the four main causes of serious and fatal crashes, including drug driving.
A Growing Concern on UK Roads
- According to the Department for Transport, drug driving offences have risen by 18% in the past two years.
- In 2024, over 20,000 drivers were prosecuted in England and Wales for driving under the influence of controlled substances.
Police across the UK are using increased roadside testing and unmarked patrols to clamp down on offenders.
Reminder to Motorists
Kent Police urge drivers to think twice before driving under the influence:
“This case should serve as a warning: if you choose to take drugs and get behind the wheel, expect serious consequences.”
