Barry man disqualified following crackdown on drink and drug drivers

Glamorgan Star news 28/01/2025

2 minutes read

A MAN from Barry is among the many drivers caught during a national policing operation that targeted drink and drug drivers in December last year.

South Wales Police (SWP) have released a video clip [below] of Steven Earls, 32, showing him driving down St Cadocs Avenue in Dinas Powys in an erratic manner before being stopped by officers from the roads policing unit. He blew 69 on the roadside, which is double the legal drink drive limit of 35.

| Watch as police follow and pull over the vehicle.

On Friday 3rd January, Earls appeared at Cardiff Magistrates Court, where he pleaded guilty to drink driving. He was disqualified from holding or obtaining a driving licence for one year and seven months. He was also ordered to pay court costs of £288.

SWP officers conducted 4,923 drink driving tests during the campaign called Operation Limit 2024 which was up by 56% on the previous year. Of those tested, 173 drivers were over the drink drive limit.

Officers also conducted 212 drug driving tests, which was up 5% compared to December 2023, with 95 drivers being over the drug driving limit.

Roads Policing Inspector Michael Prickett said: “I am extremely proud of my officers for their work in taking these drivers off the streets.

“Unfortunately, many people continue to choose to drive whilst under the influence of alcohol and drugs, and this has a devastating impact on communities and individuals.

“Although the festive period is over, officers will continue to pursue those who are determined to break the law.”

A SWP spokesperson added: “If you’re found to be over the drink-drive limit, and/or driving while impaired by drugs, not only will you receive a criminal record, but you can also get a maximum penalty of six months in prison, an unlimited fine and an automatic driving ban of at least one year.”