New initiative to catch drivers under the influence launched

This Christmas, Durham Constabulary is unwrapping a new initiative to tackle drink and drug driving.

In a first for the force, the public will now be able to report those suspected of driving under the influence – all from the comfort of the bar.

The campaign utilises special QR codes which are printed on bar runners so members of the public can discreetly report suspected drivers whilst they’re still at the bar, enabling officers to act swiftly.

The scheme is part of Operation Limit, the force’s annual drink and drug driving campaign, which officially launched on December 1.

The brainchild of PC Lee Blaney, from Durham’s Roads and Armed Policing Unit, the QR code will take users to a dedicated live chat page where they will be able to report suspected drivers straight away and provide information to help officers catch offenders in the act.

“The majority of road deaths happen to those aged between 17 and 35 so this is an additional tool to help us take impaired drivers off our roads and ultimately save lives,” PC Blaney said. “We know not everyone feels comfortable calling us too so this is a new way we can help people do their bit and that one report could mean the difference between someone spending Christmas with their family or ending up in the morgue.

“We will not shy away from the harsh reality that people will die or be seriously injured on our roads this Christmas, just because a selfish driver got behind the wheel while under the influence and we will not stop until these offenders take notice.”

Supported by Durham Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen, the runners were officially launched at The Cherry Tree, in Darlington, today (December 11).

PCC Allen said: “I hope these tough enforcement campaigns serve as a timely warning to motorists who get behind the wheel when they are unfit to drive that the police are just one step away from catching up with them. 

“I’d also like to see those testing positive for alcohol or drugs to pay for the roadside test and administration fee, which may give some people food for thought.

“The festivities of Christmas and New Year mean people may be tempted to take risks that are out of character, but this is never an excuse.

“I am pleased to see extra resources invested in the safety of our roads at this time of year, but drink and drug driving is a problem all-year-round. We will continue our work to protect road users from these preventable dangers.”