118 arrested for drink and drug driving during December crackdown

A total of 118 people were arrested in Dorset during December 2025 on suspicion of driving while over the legal limit for alcohol or drugs as part of a national campaign targeting dangerous driving.

Of those arrested, 66 were suspected of drink driving and 52 of drug driving. Police said around 79 per cent of those arrested were male, with ages ranging from 17 to 69 years old.

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Throughout the month, officers from the Roads Policing Team carried out a range of enforcement activity, including roadside stop checks, proactive patrols, intelligence-led vehicle stops and responding to reports from members of the public.

During December, Dorset Police received 316 calls reporting concerns about motorists who may have been driving under the influence of drink or drugs. More than three quarters of arrests made during the operation resulted from proactive policing or information provided by the public.

Inspector Joe Wheable, of the Roads Policing Team, said the figures showed that drink and drug driving remains a serious concern.

“Unfortunately, these figures show that people are still intent on drink or drug driving and putting themselves and other road users at risk,” he said. “While the increase in numbers is concerning, I want to make it very clear that we are relentless and taking a robust approach to anyone caught driving while under the influence.

“This activity is not exclusive to December and will continue all year round. Our officers are highly trained and have the equipment to spot anyone who may be driving while over the drink or drug limit.”

Inspector Wheable also thanked members of the public who contacted police during the campaign.

“We are extremely grateful to every single person who made a report to us during December. Every call matters and allows us to take action to protect all road users across Dorset,” he added.

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said the results demonstrated the force’s commitment to road safety.

“I am pleased to see that Dorset Police’s December Op Limit has delivered strong results and clearly demonstrates the Force’s determination to protect our communities during one of the busiest times of the year,” he said. “The 118 arrests send a clear message that dangerous behaviour on our roads will not be tolerated.”

He added that tackling drug driving remains a priority, calling for tougher sanctions and greater awareness of the harm caused by offending motorists.

Police are urging anyone who suspects someone is about to drive while under the influence of drink or drugs to call 999, providing details of the vehicle, registration number and direction of travel.