West Midlands Police have issued a stark seasonal warning to motorists after a man was charged with drink-driving in Birmingham just days before Christmas.
Erratic Driving Leads to Arrest
The incident occurred on Tuesday, December 23, at approximately 7.30pm. Officers from the force's proactive Operation Skybridge unit were on patrol in the Sutton Coldfield area when they observed a vehicle being driven erratically along Green Lanes.
The driver was stopped and subsequently arrested on suspicion of drink-driving.
Man Appears in Court
The arrested man was later identified as Stephen Packer, 56. He has been formally charged with drink-driving and is scheduled to appear before Birmingham Magistrates' Court next month.
Police Issue Festive Plea to Public
Following the charge, West Midlands Police used their social media channels to deliver a direct Christmas message to the public. The force urged anyone celebrating over the festive period to plan a safe way home and not to risk lives by driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The police statement emphasised their ongoing #OpLimit campaign, which aims to improve road safety. It also called on the public to intervene if they see someone about to drive after drinking, stating: "Speak up. Stop them. You could save a life."
For emergencies or if someone is in immediate danger, the public are reminded to always dial 999.
The force confirmed that Operation Skybridge officers continue to carry out proactive enforcement across Birmingham, targeting offenders and disrupting criminal activity with what they describe as "significant results".
