The holiday season brings to light the ongoing issue of drink-driving, with several individuals facing legal repercussions
A civil engineer found asleep in his work van at a roundabout was among several drivers convicted of drink-driving during Sussex Police’s Operation Limit campaign. The campaign, which took place in December, aimed to reduce incidents of driving under the influence during the holiday season. Notable convictions included a motorcyclist caught speeding after consuming alcohol the night before, a man who crashed into a traffic light while nearly three times over the limit, and a driver caught drinking in a layby after a supermarket visit.
Benjamin Davies, a 34-year-old civil engineer from Hailsham, was discovered asleep at the Rodmill roundabout in Eastbourne with hazard lights on. Following a public tip-off, police found him over the limit on December 2. In court, he was fined and disqualified from driving for six months.
Adrian Karas, a 39-year-old former chef from Hove, was stopped while speeding on a motorcycle without a valid license. After admitting to drinking whisky and cola before driving, he was fined and received a 14-month driving ban.
Benedict Glassock, 49, unemployed from Worthing, caused a collision in Worthing and was found to be over twice the legal alcohol limit. He received a two-year ban and was ordered to complete community service.
Ryan Mann, a 27-year-old construction worker, was stopped in Hastings and tested positive for alcohol, resulting in an 18-month driving ban and a fine.
Phillip Jenkins, a 76-year-old retiree, was seen drinking spirits from his car boot in a layby and was banned from driving for a year after being found over the limit.
Xhoana Lama, a 31-year-old art and fashion designer from Caterham, was involved in a minor collision in Crawley and, after testing positive for alcohol, was disqualified for one year and fined.
These cases are part of Sussex Police’s efforts to deter drink and drug driving, highlighting the consequences of such actions.
Head of the Roads Policing Unit (RPU) Superintendent Rachel Glenton said: “Those who commit these offences risk punishments which include being disqualified from driving, heavy fines, and even the risk of going to prison.
“These are nothing compared to the risk they pose of causing serious harm or even the death of themselves or other road users.
“Drink or drug driving is one of the main causes of people being killed or seriously injured on our roads.
“That is why we continue to urge people to take steps to prevent drink and drug-driving, such as persuading loved ones not to drive, and taking sensible steps such as pre-booking taxis or walking home.
“Our officers are determined to catch offenders to help keep our roads safe.”
