Dozens Arrested in Sussex Drink-Driving Crackdown
Sussex Police have cracked down hard on drunk and drugged drivers after a series of shocking incidents in December. Following a fatal crash and dozens of other collisions where intoxication was suspected, officers arrested 233 motorists suspected of drink or drug driving.
Deadly December on Sussex Roads
December saw Sussex hit with 52 reported traffic collisions linked to impaired driving. Tragically, one of these was fatal, leaving a passenger dead and the driver injured and hospitalised. The grim toll has spurred a force-wide campaign to stop drunk driving in its tracks.
“Together We Can Stop It” Campaign
At the start of December, Sussex Police launched the Drink Driving: Together We Can Stop It campaign. It urged locals to do their part by booking taxis, persuading friends to stay off the road if over the limit, and reporting offenders.
The campaign ran alongside Operation Limit, a national drive across England and Wales targeting drunk and drugged drivers over Christmas and New Year. Sussex officers have been patrolling 24/7 to catch offenders before tragedy strikes.
Chief Constable Sounds Warning
“Tragically, we have once again seen the devastating consequences that drink-driving can have,” said Chief Constable Jo Shiner. “More than 50 collisions in a month prove just how dangerous it is to drive under the influence. Every driver who does is putting lives at risk.”
So far, 86 suspected offenders have been charged and face court hearings through January. Sussex Police have pledged to publish the names of convicted drink-drivers to raise awareness and deter others.
Shocking Cases Highlight Ongoing Problem
Despite warnings, police are still finding motorists risking lives: one driver was caught vomiting behind the wheel after drinking, another smoking cannabis in a car park.
“It’s good to see us taking dangerous drivers off the roads,” said Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne. “But it’s shocking how many still think this behaviour is acceptable. If you’re going to travel, make alternative arrangements.”
Stiff Penalties and Road Safety
Drink and drug driving remain a key cause of fatal crashes in the UK. Possible consequences include:
- Minimum 12-month driving ban
- Unlimited fines
- Possible prison sentence
- Permanent criminal record risking jobs and travel
- Rising insurance costs
- Potentially causing death or serious injury
The message is clear: don’t risk it. Plan ahead, book a taxi, or get a designated driver. And if you spot someone drunk or drugged behind the wheel, call the police immediately. Sussex Police are working round the clock to keep roads safe — but it takes all of us to stop the reckless few.
