THE police have highlighted a “deeply concerning” increase in Islanders driving while over the legal alcohol limit in 2024 compared to 2023.
Chief officer Robin Smith stressed that drink-driving can have a “devastating impact”, citing the loss of father and son Dean and Charlie Lowe in a hit-and-run collision in August 2023 – after which it emerged the driver had been drinking heavily.
The force has revealed that the number of Islanders who were breathalysed and found to be over the limit during the whole of 2024 was 77, compared to 50 in 2023.
Mr Smith described the 54% increase as “deeply concerning”.
He said: “The tragic loss of Dean and Charlie Lowe should surely bring to the forefront of every driver’s mind the devastating impact it can have, and the families left to grieve.”
States and honorary police officers also carried out extra patrols and roadside checks across the Island during December, to tackle drivers who have been drinking and driving either that same day, or the morning after.
The initiative saw 813 vehicles stopped, with 163 breath samples taken – resulting in seven drivers being arrested on suspicion of driving while over the limit and nine being given words of advice.
Additionally, one vehicle was impounded, 12 drivers were reported to parish hall enquiries and 155 were given words of advice in relation to other driving matters.
Mr Smith noted a “welcome” reduction in the number of positive tests over December (8) in comparison to the same period in 2023 (11).
Inspector Lawrence Courtness, roads policing lead, said: “I want to thank our officers and our honorary police colleagues for their dedication and thoroughness in conducting these checks over the festive period.
“Their efforts are crucial in ensuring the safety of our roads and our community.”
