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Nearly 200 drink and drug driving arrests made across North Yorkshire in five-week police operation

Friday, 24 July 2026 15:31

North Yorkshire Police

Nearly 200 people were arrested on suspicion of drink or drug driving across York and North Yorkshire during a five-week police operation.

North Yorkshire Police has revealed that between 11th June and 19th July 2026, officers made 97 arrests on suspicion of drink driving and a further 95 on suspicion of drug driving.

An additional 31 motorists were arrested after failing to provide samples for analysis.

The arrests came as part of a seasonal increase in enforcement activity, with officers carrying out extra high-visibility patrols, targeted stop checks and roadside operations at locations across the county.

Police say around one in ten of the arrests followed a road traffic collision, highlighting the risks posed by motorists driving while under the influence of drink or drugs.

More than a third of those arrested have already been charged and are due to appear in court.

Many of the remaining cases are awaiting the results of forensic blood analysis before further action is taken.

At the start of the operation, Chief Inspector Tom Ibbetson said there was no excuse for driving while impaired and warned that officers would continue to take robust action against anyone who chose to get behind the wheel after consuming drink or drugs.

North Yorkshire Police says tackling drink and drug driving remains a year-round priority and enforcement activity will continue across the county.

Drivers found to be over the legal alcohol limit or impaired by drugs could face a criminal record, an unlimited fine, up to six months in prison and an automatic driving ban of at least 12 months.

Police also reminded motorists that the maximum penalty for causing death by dangerous driving while under the influence of drink or drugs is life imprisonment.

Anyone who believes someone is about to drive while impaired is urged to call 999 immediately.

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