Real-life cases fuel charity’s drug-driving campaign
This summer, Crimestoppers in Cumbria is encouraging the public to speak up about drug-driving based on real calls to the charity’s UK Contact Centre.
Many people drive after taking drugs feeling that they will not get caught, that they are in control or because of addiction. Driving under the influence of illegal drugs is increasing throughout the country, with some people not realising that drugs can remain in their system for a considerable amount of time.
Drug wipe and saliva testing kits are now used to catch those who are unfit to drive after consuming drugs. This has led to an increase in convictions.
Community intelligence given to Crimestoppers anonymously is vital to keeping our roads safe and catching those who regularly drug drive.
The campaign uses real-life examples taken from information the charity received last year including:
- A girl on a night out who takes recreational drugs and then drives her friends’ home.
- A person who takes prescribed methadone, but tops up with illegal drugs to get high
Crimestoppers charity wants to help keep people safe on Cumbria’s roads this summer and we urge anyone with information to speak up and stay anonymous whilst telling us who is getting behind the wheel whilst under the influence of drugs.
The campaign is part of a year-long initiative between the PCC, Cumbria Police and our charity, all working in partnership to make Cumbria’s roads safer.
Gary Murray, Regional Manager for the charity Crimestoppers, said: “We appreciate that if you’re close to someone who gets behind the wheel regularly whilst under the influence of drugs, it can be difficult to come forward. It could be a work colleague, a neighbour, or even a family member or a friend. This can explain why some people are reluctant to go to the police because of the fear of being identified.
“Drug drivers put other people’s lives at risk and your information could help prevent an accident from happening and could even help save lives.
“By trusting our charity with your information you’ll stay 100% anonymous. Always. We never take personal details and calls to our UK Contact Centre on 0800 555 111 and information passed through the Anonymous Online Form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org cannot be traced. Together we can help protect those you care about.”
If you see someone attempting to operate a vehicle whilst under the influence of drugs or drink please call 999 as this may require urgent police action.
