More than 150 drink drivers in Scotland had their motor vehicles seized then sold or scrapped between April 2013 and March 2014, according to figures released by the Crown Office.
An average of three vehicles a week were forfeited by repeat drink and drug driving offenders, first offenders driving or attempting to drive with a high alcohol reading and those who refused to give a sample of breath to the police without a reasonable excuse.
Court Orders for vehicle forfeiture included small hatchback cars, luxury saloons, high performance cars, four-wheel drive vehicles, vans and also a motorcycle. Those of any value were sold at auction by Police Scotland and others were scrapped for their metal value, with all proceeds paid to the Scottish Consolidated Fund.
The Lord Advocate, Frank Mulholland QC repeated his warning, given at the launch of this summer’s drink driving campaign, of the often tragic consequences of the offence. He said: “Drivers whose selfish actions result in the deaths of others when they drive under the influence of drink or drugs bring misery and devastation to families and loved ones throughout our communities. My message is very clear: you will be caught and when you are, you will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law”.
He added: “Motorists in Scotland should also be aware of the tough legal and personal consequences of driving while under the influence of drink or drugs, not only could you lose your vehicle but you will receive a minimum 20 year criminal record.”
If anyone suspects someone of drink driving, or attempting to drink and drive, they can contact their local police office on 101 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. They can also dial 999 in an emergency.
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Drink and driving is well publicised – I’m surprised that anyone still does it and thinks they can get away with it! Drug driving is also a huge menace for our roads – see http://www.showplatesdirect.com/uk/blog/drug-driving-and-the-consequences/ for the shocking statistics that prove we need to tighten up both drink driving and drug driving laws.