Police in Stratford will have their sights set on drug drivers following an expansion of the force’s roadside testing regime.
The number of police stations and units equipped to conduct roadside drug testing across the state will double over the following 12 months.
This includes a number of one-member police stations and smaller stations in regional areas.
Stratford has been selected as part of the expansion, with local police to be trained and equipped to carry out drug testing at the roadside.
Testing will occur at various days, times and locations in the area as part of a broader ‘anywhere, anytime’ enforcement approach.
“Roadside drug testing in Stratford is a win for the community – it means we can detect and remove dangerous drug drivers from our roads and help keep all road users safe from harm,” East Gippsland and Wellington Road Policing Advisor, Luke Banwell, said.
“Drug driving is a major contributor to road trauma, and we know particularly in regional areas there’s a greater perception that you’re unlikely to be caught.
“Put simply, if you take drugs and drive the chances of getting caught have never been greater. “If you choose to drive on drugs, there is nowhere to hide – we can be anywhere, anytime.”
The increased capability means police will be able to detect and remove more drug drivers from Victorian roads than ever before.
Failing a roadside drug test carries a $593 fine and six-month licence suspension for a first offence, with repeat offenders required to attend court and face further penalties including significant fines and licence cancellation.
Roadside drug testing will start in Stratford from August 1, 2024.
Victoria Police continues to maintain a target of 150,000 roadside drug tests each year.
