Avon and Somerset Police arrested 346 people in six weeks for driving under the influence of drink and or drugs. The arrests were part of the National Police Chief’s Council Winter 2022 Drink and Drug Driving Operation dubbed operation Tonic. 

Of the total number of offences reported between November 21 and December 31, 216 were for drink driving and 130 for drug driving. Just 39 people were arrested for drug driving over the same period in the previous year. 

The increase in drug driving arrests constitutes an over 300% year on year rise. It follows a UK wide trend that has seen a steep decline in drink-drive related deaths and injuries - as drug-related driving offences soar. The sharp rise has prompted the Transport Minister to call for drug driving offenders to undergo rehabilitation before returning to the wheel.

Between 2016 and 2020 the number of people seriously injured in drug drive collisions almost doubled, while drink-drive deaths fell 88% between 1979 and 2015.

Over the course of this Winter’s operation Tonic officers stopped and educated more than 2,000 drivers. A quarter of the total arrests made were in Somerset West. 

The police operations also resulted in a number of other offences being detected. These included speeding, insurance, seatbelt, and drugs offences, as well as the discovery of disqualified drivers and a wanted person. 

The operation involved patrols by roads policing, neighbourhood officers and special constables. The police say that their personnel were supported by members of the public who called in numerous reports of drink and drug driving to the Force. 

Inspector Rob Barker, Roads Policing lead for Avon and Somerset Police’s Tactical Support Team, said: “In six weeks of Op Tonic we averaged over 57 arrests per week for drink or drug driving. If you drink or take drugs and drive, there is a very good chance you will be caught, and we always prosecute.”

He added: “Driving under the influence of drink or drugs is dangerous – you are more likely to be involved in a collision and more likely to cause injury and even death.” In a statement the Force warned: “Drivers risk up to six months’ imprisonment, an unlimited fine and a substantial driving ban if they are caught driving while above the legal limit. Anyone who causes a death while drink or drug driving could face life imprisonment.” 

The Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford thanked the Force for its work, and said:  “I am shocked at the number of people who, despite warnings from the police, got behind the wheel under the influence. There is no excuse to drink and drive and, by doing so, you’re putting your own life and others at risk. Please do tell Avon and Somerset Police if you suspect drink/ drug driving is happening and help us keep our roads safe.”