An “unacceptable” number of drink-driving cases recently brought before the courts has prompted a warning from the States police’s most senior officer – after offenders saw more than 15 years of driving disqualifications and £5,000 in fines imposed in a matter of days.
Robin Smith made the comments after nine defendants in drink-driving cases were convicted in a single week.
Of the cases heard, five resulted in immediate sentencing – including custodial sentences, lengthy driving disqualifications, fines and community service – while four guilty pleas were entered with sentencing scheduled for a later date.
We will continue to take action, and those who offend should expect to be caught and brought before the courts
police chief Robin Smith
Mr Smith said: “Nine drink-driving convictions in a single week is unacceptable.”
He continued: “In just a matter of days, the courts have imposed over 15 years of driving disqualifications and £5,000 in fines, alongside custodial sentences and community penalties.
“These are not minor penalties – they reflect the seriousness of the offence – yet people are still choosing to drink and drive despite clear laws, repeated warnings, and the very real risks involved.”
Mr Smith added that the Island had seen the “tragic consequences” of serious collisions that “had an impact across the whole community”, including the families and friends directly affected.
“Against that backdrop, it is hard to understand why anyone would continue to take this risk.”
During 2025 there were 116 arrests for driving under the influence of alcohol, with 79 convictions.
The latter figure does not include cases that were still live before the courts at the end of the year.
So far in 2026, there have been 36 arrests, with 33 charges brought to date.
Mr Smith stressed that there was “no excuse” for drink-driving, which “is not an accident or bad luck”.
“It is a conscious decision,” he continued.
“If you choose to do it, you are choosing to put other people’s lives in danger.
“We will continue to take action, and those who offend should expect to be caught and brought before the courts.”
The message comes as the force enters the next phase of the “Get Home Safe” campaign over the coming months, working with partners across the Island to encourage people to plan ahead, use safe transport options and look out for friends.
