READ: This drunk driver wrote a 'thank you' letter to the cop who caught him

Facing up to his guilt!

A US police chief couldn’t believe his eyes after opening a letter from a man convicted of drunk driving.

The man, who was detained for the offence in the US state of Georgia last July, sent the letter to Tyrone Police Department chief Brandon Perkins so he could thank an officer - Sgt Jacob Collins - for arresting him on Highway 74.

He admits in the letter that he was “severely intoxicated” on the night in question and added the officer “saved my life and the lives of others and I truly appreciate his actions and his efforts”.

Speaking to Fox 5 Atlanta last Monday, chief Perkins felt the letter was some vindication for the job the police do.

“This is kind of a testament to what law enforcement does every day,” said Perkins.

“Our job is to go out and make sure people are safe. That is what Collins was doing that night and the end result was the driver is safe, he did not hurt anyone and the message was sent - that is what we are here to do”.

You can also read the letter on the Tyrone Police Department Facebook page here.

The offender decided to end his letter with a powerful note.

“I do not like being on probation, and I do not enjoy paying a series of fines, fees and insurance hikes; however, I am grateful to be alive. I thank Officer Collins and your entire department,” wrote the man, whose name has been protected.

The streets are now a little safer thanks to Sgt Collins’ efforts and it looks like the message really sunk in.