Drunk & Drugged Driving Up in Hochsauerlandkreis: Police Report 2024

Police in the Hochsauerlandkreis region of Germany have reported a concerning increase in drivers detected operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In the past year, 112 drivers were found to be intoxicated, a rise of approximately 7% compared to the 104 cases recorded in 2024, according to police data.

Alongside the increase in drink-driving, authorities also observed a 6-case increase in drivers testing positive for drugs, with a total of 42 cases reported in 2025. Police officials suggest that the recent legalization of cannabis in Germany may be a contributing factor to this trend.

The Kreispolizeibehörde Hochsauerlandkreis has emphasized the importance of continued traffic controls and preventative measures. “Anyone who drives under the influence endangers lives – their own and those of other road users,” a police spokesperson stated.

Recent police activity, as reported on March 23, 2026, includes investigations into attempted burglaries in Sundern-Allendorf and Arnsberg-Oeventrop, as well as a burglary in Olsberg. Police are requesting public assistance in identifying potential witnesses to these incidents. On March 20, 2026, authorities also investigated a robbery at a petrol station and a serious motorcycle accident between Sundern and Meschede.

The Hochsauerlandkreis Police Department is also utilizing WhatsApp to disseminate quick updates on local events and press releases. The department recently held a meeting to establish a new police advisory board on February 5, 2026, and has begun construction on a new police service building in Meschede.

The police are currently seeking information regarding a hit-and-run incident in Arnsberg, where a pedestrian was injured, and a break-in at a family home in Hallenberg.