A Billingham man is thought to be among the first in the country to have been arrested following the introduction of new drug driving legislation.
The 21-year-old was arrested just before midnight yesterday after providing a positive roadside drug test.
He had been stopped on Marsh House Avenue and was taken into custody, where he remains this morning.
His arrest came on the same day new legislation came into force.
Section 5A of the Road Traffic Act 1988 allows officers to test anyone suspected of driving under the influence of excess drugs with a roadside kit.
The kit will indicate if the person has been under the influence of cocaine or cannabis, or a prescribed drug which may contain traces of either.
Using the device means that it is easier and quicker for officers to test someone and get the result.
Previously, under Section 4 of the Road Traffic Act 1988, officers had only the power to carry out a Field Impairment Test, or a FIT test, on those suspected of being under the influence of drugs. Blood or urine samples could also be taken from a person in custody on suspicion of the same offence.
Section 4 legislation is still available for officers to use should a test return a negative result or where a Drug Wipe test is refused and the person is still suspected of being under the influence of drugs.
Those on prescription medication are also advised to check the guidance that comes with their medication to ensure that they are fit to drive.
Speaking after the arrest, a spokeswoman for the force said: “Whilst this may be among the first in the country, it won’t be the last.
“Our message remains the same - don’t get behind the wheel under the influence of drink or drugs. It’s just not worth the risk.”
Inspector Ed Turner, from the Cleveland and Durham Specialist Operations Unit, said: “Those who drive under the influence of drugs, or equally alcohol, put their lives and the lives of other innocent road users and pedestrians at significant risk.”
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