Porsche driver arrested over inhaling gas on A12

A Porsche driver who was spotted on the A12 inhaling gas from a green balloon has been arrested on suspicion of drug driving.

The 27-year-old man was stopped on Saturday near Feering, Essex, where officers recovered balloons and two large nitrous oxide canisters from the boot of the vehicle.

Two eyewitnesses reported they saw the man driving "all over the road" on the same day near Kelvedon, Essex.

The driver was also arrested on suspicion of being in possession of a Class C drug (nitrous oxide) for wrongful inhalation.

The driver has been released under investigation whilst inquiries continue.

Adam Pipe, the head of Essex Police's Roads Policing Unit, said the incident "takes irresponsibility to another level".

Mr Pipe added it was one of 10 arrests for drink or drug driving made that day by the force's Roads Policing Unit.

"It's not coincidental that my officers were out targeting drink and drug drivers that day," Mr Piper said.

"We're passionate about keeping our roads safe and reducing the number of killed and seriously injured collisions on our roads."

Essex Police said the motorist was stopped by its officers just 15 minutes after the first 999 call was made.

"Anyone who decides to get behind the wheel knowing that they are over the drink and drug drive limit are irresponsible and must know that they are putting themselves and others' safety at risk," Mr Pipe said.

Possession of nitrous oxide – which is a Class C drug – could result in a two-year prison sentence, while those convicted of supplying it could face up to 14 years imprisonment.

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