A woman who drove carelessly while more than three times over the legal alcohol limit with four children in her car has been sentenced to a suspended prison term.
The Incident
Louise Kimber, 43, of Frampton Court, Wilton, was caught driving erratically on the A345 near Salisbury just after 4:30 pm on August 11, 2024. An off-duty police officer witnessed her vehicle swerving across the centre line and into a hedge. Alarmed by her reckless driving, the officer noted that there were children inside the car and immediately reported the incident.
Officers located the vehicle in a car park at Longhedge, near the area where the driving concerns were initially reported. Kimber was found shortly after leaving a nearby shop and identified herself as the driver.
Alcohol Limit Breached
A preliminary breath test revealed that Kimber was more than three times over the legal alcohol limit. She was subsequently arrested and charged with drink driving and careless driving.
Court Ruling
On Monday, April 7, 2025, Kimber pleaded guilty to both offences at Salisbury Magistrates’ Court. She was sentenced to 12 weeks in prison, suspended for two years, and disqualified from driving for 60 months. Additionally, she was ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid work.
Police Statement
PC Munns from Salisbury Team 1A Response condemned Kimber’s actions, stating:
“Driving whilst under the influence of alcohol is one of the ‘Fatal Five’ offences, meaning it’s one of the five main factors that cause serious road traffic collisions. Not only was Louise Kimber putting her own life in danger, but also the lives of the children in her vehicle and other road users. Drink driving is not tolerated and there is never an excuse to be behind the wheel of a vehicle after having alcohol.”
Public Reaction
Local residents have expressed shock and outrage, particularly given the presence of four children in the vehicle. Community members praised the swift response of the off-duty officer and the firm stance of the court.
Wiltshire Police continue to remind the public of the dangers of drink driving, emphasizing that it will not be tolerated and urging anyone who suspects a drink driver to report it immediately.
