Suspected drug-driver sniffed out by roads policing officers

The keen senses of two Kent Police officers resulted in another drug driving arrest during a month-long road safety campaign.

A strong smell of cannabis was detected by the officers from the Roads Policing Unit when a truck passed their patrol car in Branbridges Road, East Peckham.

The vehicle was stopped and the driver, aged 33 and from the Tonbridge area, was arrested after failing a roadside drug test. He was also found to be in possession of a small quantity of herbal cannabis and has since been released on bail pending further enquiries.

Campaign

More than 100 people have been arrested since the beginning of the force’s annual drink and drug driving campaign, which runs for the entire month of December.

Driving under the influence of drink or drugs is one of the ‘fatal factors’ that put vehicle owners most at risk along with speeding, being distracted at the wheel (e.g. by a mobile phone) and not wearing a seatbelt.

Avoidable

Chief Inspector Craig West of Kent Police said:

‘People who drive when unfit to do so could end up losing their licence, their job or even their life. They also risk causing serious injury or death to other road users when it is easily avoidable. ‘Kent Police officers are trained to spot the signs of drink and drug driving so if you get behind the wheel whilst under the influence of either then there is a good chance you will be stopped and taken into custody. ‘All motorists have a responsibility to keep themselves and other road users safe, so please do not drink or drug drive in the run-up to Christmas or at any other time of the year. There is no excuse and it is simply not worth the risk.’