Learner driver arrested during test for drug-driving
Police said the learner driver was stopped in the middle of his driving test and arrested for drug use.
Merseyside Police said patrol officers initially stopped the vehicle after detecting a faulty brake light and poor driving.
While speaking to the driver, officers were able to smell marijuana so they administered a drug wipe test, which the driver failed. The driving test was immediately terminated, force added.
The 26-year-old driver was also found to be in possession of marijuana and arrested. He was later released from police custody pending investigation.
The man, originally from Wigan, was taking his driving test in St Helens when he was spotted by patrol officers in King Street at around 5pm on Sunday.
Merseyside road police inspector Simon Wilson said: “Officers rightly pulled the car over after noticing a brake light was not working, which is dangerous not only for the vehicle’s occupants but also other road users. “After speaking to the driver, it was clear officers had much more to attend to and he was arrested on suspicion of drug driving.
“While some people might find it funny that someone would be arrested for taking their driving test, drug use is no laughing matter. Getting behind the wheel of a vehicle under the influence of drugs is extremely dangerous and selfish and it is an offense that Merseyside Police take seriously.”
The force’s Road Policing Unit said on social media platform
User One
Another user responded to the police statement on social media and said, “At least they will save on tuition for the next 18 months.” Merseyside Roads Policing Unit responded: “Ahhh, they can use the money they save on lessons to pay for court costs and fines!! #Silver Linings”.
Every year, police conduct ‘Operation Limit’, a nationwide initiative aimed at cracking down on driving during festive seasons. Merseyside police said they were determined to “improve road safety” and “crack down on selfish drivers” throughout the year.
The force is urging anyone who suspects drink driving to immediately call 999 or contact 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
