"Operation Sabre Tooth" highlights new 'at-risk' time for drunk driving

"Operation Sabre Tooth" involved the setting up of a number of checkpoints around the CBD area, effectively sealing off the main routes out of the city. 

9254 vehicles were stopped during the evening operation which ran from 6.30pm through to 11.30pm. During the evening there were 411 negative screening tests and 28 drivers found to be driving over the legal blood alcohol limit. NZTA compliance officers assisted at the checkpoints leading to 9 modified vehicles being written off the road. 11 court confiscations were also carried out.

Information gathered during the evening revealed that the at-risk period for drink driving was in fact earlier than expected. This information will be used to inform future operations.

Sergeant Stephen Richardson, who co-ordinated the operation, was pleased with the team effort and smooth running of the operation, but was disappointed that so many drivers were found to be over the limit putting themselves and other road users at risk.

New Plymouth injury Safe volunteers assisted during the evening, taking refreshments around to each of the checkpoints. Our thanks to Andre's Pies & Patisseries, City New World and Pizza Hut for their catering contributions during the evening.