Record Number Of Arrests In Sussex Police Christmas Drink And Drug-Drive Crackdown

A record number of motorists were arrested during Sussex Police’s annual Christmas campaign targeting drink and drug-driving.

The operation ran from 1 December to 1 January, with officers carrying out both enforcement and education activities across the county.

The campaign was widely promoted through social media, leaflets, posters and even messages displayed at petrol pumps, warning drivers of the dangers of driving while impaired.

Despite the high-profile warnings, a total of 279 people were arrested during the month-long operation.

So far, 97 have been charged to appear in court, with some already convicted.

Sussex Police says it will continue to publicly name those convicted of drink or drug-driving as part of the campaign, to raise awareness and act as a deterrent.

Chief Constable Jo Shiner, who is also the National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for roads policing, said she was “extremely disappointed” by the number of arrests.

She said drink and drug-driving remains one of the five most common causes of fatal and serious injury collisions in Sussex, adding that every year families’ lives are “torn apart” by people choosing to drive while intoxicated.

While acknowledging that social events increase over the festive period, she said driving under the influence is still “unacceptable and inexcusable” and confirmed police will continue to target offenders all year round.

During the campaign, 165 arrests were made for drug-driving and 134 for drink-driving, with some motorists arrested on suspicion of both offences.

Of those arrested, 243 were male and 51 female, with five unspecified.

The figures represent an increase on previous years, with 270 arrests recorded in 2024/25 and 261 in 2023/24.

Police say there was a particular focus on raising awareness of drug-driving this year, as many drivers were unaware that both legal and illegal drugs can impair driving ability for days or even weeks after being taken.

Chief Constable Shiner warned drivers that if they are unsure whether they are fit to drive, they should not take the risk, adding that the consequences could include losing their licence, job or life, as well as endangering others.

Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne said the rise in drug-driving arrests was a “concerning trend” and described the behaviour as a “one-way ticket to disaster” on the county’s roads.

She said the record number of arrests sends a clear message that drink and drug-driving will not be tolerated, with education and enforcement continuing throughout the year.

Police are urging anyone who suspects someone is driving under the influence of drink or drugs to call 999.

Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online.