Canterbury Police arrested a 42 year old man near Greta Valley yesterday (14 January 2015) as part of Operation Capricorn, a road policing and alcohol prevention operation. A concerned member of the public called Police shortly before 11.30am to report the driver and sole occupant of a white Holden Statesman sedan was struggling to stand before getting into his car.
The north-bound car was stopped by Police on SH1 Parnassus Road, about 10 min from Cheviot, at approximately 12.10pm. The driver was arrested and his car was impounded.
Canterbury Police have charged the man with driving while forbidden, possession of cannabis, refusing to accompany the officer and refusing a request to provide blood. He has been released on bail and is due to appear in Christchurch District Court on 20 January 2015.
Acting Canterbury Road Policing Manager, Inspector Glenn Nalder, says “We encourage the public to report any concerns they have regarding driving or driver behaviour. It is disappointing that drivers are still getting behind the wheel when they have been drinking, particularly given the lowered alcohol limit. Alcohol was a factor in many of the fatal crashes over the holiday period in Canterbury and our message to drivers is if you are drinking alcohol don’t drive.”
“Canterbury Roads are as safe as the people using them. Driving to the conditions, wearing safety belts and not driving while under the influence of drink or drugs play a key role in you arriving at your destination safely. We want every journey in Canterbury to be a safe one. Be aware of your surroundings and other drivers on the road. Speed limits are a maximum, not a target and we urge anyone who sees any erratic or dangerous driving to report it to Police “ explained Inspector Nalder.
“Always call or text 111 in an emergency. Call *555 free from your mobile phone to report non-injury crashes, erratic driving and urgent (but not life threatening) road incidents.”
Canterbury Police ask anyone who were driving along SH1 in the Cheviot/Greta Valley area yesterday morning and saw a white Holden Statesman sedan driving erratically to contact them on 03 363 7400.
Information can also be provided anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
ENDS
Issued by: Lisa-Marie Brooks, District Communications Manager, Canterbury Police District. Mobile: 021 942 404