'Erratic' motorist charged with drink driving after 'being spotted in Sutton Coldfield'

West Midlands Police officers, who were patrolling the area for Operation Skybridge, spotted the vehicle on Green Lanes at around 7.30pm yesterday (December 23). 

Stephen Packer was arrested and has since been charged with drink driving.

The 56-year-old from Erdington is due to appear in Birmingham Magistrates Court next month.

A spokesperson for West Midlands Police has issued a warning against drink driving this festive season following the arrest.

"If you’re heading out around Christmas, make sure you have a plan to get home safely. Don’t risk your life or someone else’s by driving under the influence," a spokesperson said.

"We’re running #OpLimit to keep you safe on the roads and we’re asking everyone to do the right thing. If you see someone about to drive after drinking or taking drugs, speak up. Stop them. You could save a life.

"In an emergency or if someone is in danger, always dial 999. Op Skybridge officers continue to carry out proactive enforcement across Birmingham, where they target offenders and disrupt crime.

"Deploying to different areas of the city, they have already secured some significant results.

"Keep following our website and social media to see more about what the Skybridge team has been doing where you live."

Figures released by West Midlands Police have shown how hundreds of drivers were arrested over the Christmas period last year - with 26 incidents that left people injured.

Operation Skybridge is a proactive policing initiative by West Midlands Police targeting serious and acquisitive crimes in Birmingham, including burglary, robbery, and vehicle crime. 

The team conducts intelligence-led patrols, arrests offenders, seizes weapons, drugs, and cash, and engages with local communities to improve safety.