Kent Cops Crack Down on Drink and Drug Drivers This Festive Season
Kent Police’s Roads Policing Unit has launched a hard-hitting crackdown to slash the number of people killed or seriously injured on county roads. The operation kicked off on Friday, 1 December 2023, and runs through to New Year’s Day.
116 Arrested So Far in Festive Road Blitz
Officers are taking no chances, arresting 116 drivers caught committing offences during proactive patrols. Every driver who breaks a moving traffic law is now breath-tested, even if there’s no initial suspicion of drink driving.
Drug wipe kits are also being used roadside to spot drugged-up drivers instantly. Those who test positive are taken to custody for blood tests. Plus, intelligence-led fixed site checks are underway, alongside efforts to warn motorists about the deadly risks of driving after drinking or taking drugs.
Notable Busts in Gillingham and Folkestone
- On 6 December, a Gillingham driver was stopped with multiple vehicle defects. He flunked a drug test and cops found a knuckle duster. Arrested for numerous offences, he’s now on bail.
- That same day, another Gillingham man driving a van without a seatbelt also failed drugs screening. He was arrested for drug driving and later bailed.
- On 8 December in Folkestone, a female driver fled from police during a pursuit. She failed a drug test with a positive result for cocaine. A vehicle search uncovered large amounts of cocaine, cannabis, and heroin. She has since been bailed.
Zero Tolerance Message from Inspector David Crompton
“We take a zero-tolerance approach to drink and drug driving at all times of the year,” said Inspector Crompton. “This campaign shines a spotlight on tackling these offences.”
“Driving under the influence is totally avoidable and puts innocent lives at risk. It remains one of the top four causes of serious crashes, alongside ignoring seatbelts, mobile phone use at the wheel, and speeding.”
“Though only a small number of drivers offend, the consequences can be devastating for everyone involved.”
Harsh Penalties for Drink and Drug Drivers
Offenders risk up to six months in prison, unlimited fines, and hefty driving bans. Those causing death while under the influence face up to 14 years behind bars. The police message is clear: don’t drink or do drugs if you’re driving this Christmas.
