Christmas crackdown on drink and drug-drivers across Sussex starts this week

Sussex Police are warning that a quick drive under the influence of drink or drugs could lead to a life behind bars.

And to reinforce the message Surrey Police and Sussex Police are preparing to launch their Christmas crackdown on drink and drug-drivers.

Under new Government proposals, motorists who cause death by careless driving while under the influence of intoxicating substances face a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. The current maximum term is 14 years.

The Police say that the plans have been put forward following significant support from people including bereaved families of victims and road safety experts.

But while the penalty for the offence looks set to increase, the advice from police remains the same – if you’re prepared to drive with drink or drugs in your system, prepare to face the consequences.

Chief Inspector Warren Franklin, of the Surrey and Sussex Roads Policing Unit, said: “Each and every year, people’s lives are destroyed through drink and drug-driving, and it won’t be tolerated on our roads in Surrey and Sussex.

“Our officers will be carrying out dedicated patrols to target offenders across the two counties between December 1 2017 and January 1 2018, and will deal robustly with anyone caught driving under the influence.

“Patrols will include static stop checks at various locations, which will be in addition to responding to reports of drink and drug-drivers all year round. Our priority is to educate people of the clear risks associated with drink and drug-driving, and to keep road users safe.”

During the same campaign last year (December 1 2016 to January 1 2017), a total of 187 arrests were made in Sussex, of which 143 have since led to convictions.