Suspected drink or drug driving arrests have started as this week marks the launch of the annual awareness Christmas campaign.
The nationwide campaign runs throughout December.
This year, the Police want the public to report suspected drink or drug drivers so they can build up an intelligence picture of repeat offenders and ensure swift actions to keep roads safe.
Shortly before 1.15am this morning, December 3, police say officers in Salisbury saw a car being driven the wrong way down a one-way street. The driver was obstructive and aggressive when spoken to by officers. A 36-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of failing to provide a specimen of breath, assaulting an emergency worker, criminal damage, obstructing a police officer and driving a vehicle otherwise than in accordance of a licence. She was taken in custody at Melksham Police Station.
At 2am on the same day, officers on patrol in Tidworth stopped a vehicle and Julian Marchant, 37, of Sidbury Circular Road, was charged with driving while over the legal alcohol limit, while disqualified and without insurance. He was released on unconditional bail to appear in court in February.
Inspector Mark Freeman, Wiltshire Police roads team, said: “We will be stopping motorists whose driving cause concern, and when we have suspicions they are driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, we will take action.
“The consequences could be huge – not only are you putting your own and other road users’ safety at risk, but if you are convicted of drink or drug driving this could have a huge impact on your life. You could be facing losing your licence or even going to prison.”
If you know someone who regularly drink or drug drives, call 101 and give as much information as possible, including the driver’s details or description, their car registration, and a time or day that they always do it.
If you believe that a crime is being committed and somebody is already behind the wheel call 999.