Roads policing units in Kent have issued a firm reminder to motorists regarding the severe penalties awaiting those who choose to drive under the influence of drugs. The warning comes on the heels of a recent campaign by the force focusing on the primary factors contributing to fatal and serious road traffic incidents across the county.
The stark consequences of drug driving were recently highlighted in a Medway Magistrates’ Court case, details of which have now been released. The incident involved a 24-year-old man from the Isle of Sheppey who received a significant driving ban after being apprehended by an officer on Blue Bell Hill, near Chatham, on January 19, 2025.
The arresting constable, operating in an unmarked vehicle, initially stopped the individual’s Mercedes on suspicion of excessive speed. Subsequently, the driver failed a roadside drug test, and a search of the vehicle yielded two bags containing herbal cannabis in the glove compartment.
Further analysis of a blood sample taken at the police station confirmed the presence of cannabis above the legal limit, as well as cocaine, in the driver’s system.
Appearing at Medway Magistrates’ Court, the defendant entered a guilty plea to two charges of drug driving, possession of a Class B drug, and driving without insurance. On Friday, May 2, 2025, the court delivered its sentence, imposing a 20-month driving disqualification, mandating 130 hours of unpaid work, and requiring the individual to pay court costs.
This case serves as a clear illustration of the commitment of Kent Police to tackling drug driving and ensuring the safety of all road users. Authorities are urging motorists to consider the potentially life-altering repercussions of driving while impaired.
PC Lee Berridge said:
‘Last month we ran a road safety campaign highlighting the four most common causes of death or serious injury on our roads. These include driving whilst under the influence of drugs and the driver in this most recent case risked the safety of others when he got behind the wheel, having consumed cannabis and cocaine.
‘Whilst being sentenced, the presence of children in the car was highlighted as an aggravating factor that increased the penalty imposed. The motorist should be ashamed that he took the risk of driving in these circumstances. Anyone foolish enough to take controlled drugs should heed the lesson provided by this selfish driver’s example.’