Man charged with drink-driving

Ellis Demonte, unemployed, of Dunnings Road in East Grinstead, was arrested in Broadwater Forest Lane, Groombridge, on Monday (December 28).

The 23-year-old was charged with driving with 70mcg of alcohol per 100ml of breath in his system, driving with no licence and driving with no insurance.

He is due to appear before Crawley Magistrates’ Court on January 18.

A further 32 people have been arrested on suspicion of drink and drug-driving related offences in Sussex since December 23.

In total around 174 have been arrested as part of Sussex and Surrey Police’s crackdown, named Operation Dragonfly, on drink and drug-driving since it was launched on December 1.

Chief Inspector Andy Gooch said: “The volume of arrests we have made in Sussex this month demonstrates the blatant disregard a lot of people have for the law.

“At a time when most people are celebrating and spending time with their loved ones, it is disappointing to see that a number of motorists continue to ignore our safety advice.

“Officers will be out on patrol again in the days leading up to and beyond the New Year, and anyone caught driving while under the influence of drink or drugs will be dealt with accordingly.”

People in Sussex can text officers on 65999 with the details of people they suspect of drink or drug driving or visit www.operationcrackdown.co.uk.

You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit http://www.crimestoppers-uk.org/.

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