A MAN who gave false details to police after being stopped by traffic officers in Newton Abbot was found to be wanted for a series of offences.

The man was arrested on suspicion of drug driving, driving without insurance and obstructing police on Friday, March 20.

It later came to light that the man was wanted for both harassment and public order offences.

The arrest came as officers carried out proactive patrols in Newton Abbot, Kingsbridge, Paignton and Torquay.

Inspector Wes Watkins leads policing teams in South Devon. He said “I want to stress that the arrests made last Friday were not part of a targeted operation, but results of standard, proactive patrols carried out by our teams.

‘Drugs and alcohol severely impair a driver’s ability to control a vehicle, slow reaction times, affect judgement, and dramatically increase the likelihood of a serious or fatal collision.

‘Whilst we know the majority of road users drive safely and abide by laws, it’s disappointing to see this many people breaking the law and taking unnecessary risks in one night.

‘Every year, we see families’ lives torn apart by the selfish minority who get behind the wheel with drugs or alcohol in their system; with zero regard for their own safety or the safety of others.

‘We will continue to work with our partners to target offenders and reduce the number of people killed and seriously injured on our roads’.

Anyone who suspects someone is driving – or is about to drive - under the influence of drink or drugs should call 999 immediately.

Information can also be shared anonymously with CrimeStoppers by calling 0800 555 111.