Fatal five operation success in South Devon

Policing teams carrying out proactive patrols in Torquay, Paignton, Newton Abbot and Kingsbridge last week arrested ten people in relation to Fatal Five driving offences.

The Fatal Five are:

• Driving while distracted
• Speeding
• Driving without a seatbelt
• Drink/drug drive
• Being unfit to drive

Several teams, including the Dog Section and the Special Constabulary, focused on Fatal Five offences across Torquay, Paignton, Newton Abbot and Kingsbridge.

These are the results from 36 vehicle stops. (Some drivers presented with more than one offence.)

Drink driving X 6

Drug driving X 3

Positive drug wipes X 3

Positive breath tests X 5

No insurance X 4

Vehicles seized X 2

The Special Constabulary focused on speeding motorists in the Shaldon area with 27 drivers over the threshold with the top speed in the 20mph limit being 49 mph.

Chief Inspector Simeon Bayliss local policing in South Devon said: “This was a very successful night, with plenty of positive engagement with drivers.

“Whilst we know the majority of road users drive safely and abide by laws, it is disappointing to see this many people suspected of breaking the law and taking unnecessary risks while behind the wheel.

 “Every year, we see families’ lives torn apart by the selfish minority who get behind the wheel and commit these fatal five offences, with zero regard for their own safety or the safety of others.

“We will continue to work with our partners to target offenders and reduce the number of people killed and seriously injured on our roads.”

Anyone concerned about another driver’s behaviour can report either by calling 101 or online here: Making a road traffic incident report | Devon & Cornwall Police

Information can also be shared anonymously with CrimeStoppers by calling 0800 555 111.