Taxi Driver and Co-Defendant Sentenced for Evasive Red Light Violation

"Atique Khan (Image Credit: West Yorkshire Police)"

A Bradford taxi driver and his accomplice have been sentenced after attempting to evade justice for a red light violation.

Atique Khan, 44, was jailed for over two years for his role in the conspiracy, while his co-defendant, Kashif Khan, 30, avoided an immediate jail sentence despite his involvement in the crime.

The Incident

In July 2021, Kashif Khan's Lexus was captured running a red light on the A650 in Bradford by another driver's dashcam. The incident was reported to the police, and a Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP) was sent to Kashif Khan.

However, instead of taking responsibility, Khan and Atique Khan decided to attempt to manipulate the system and avoid prosecution.

The Deception and Misleading the authorities

After receiving the NIP, the pair returned the notice with a false driver's name and an address that had been used in similar nominations over 170 times between April 2019 and April 2024.

This was part of a deliberate plan to confuse the investigation. The police soon linked Atique Khan to the address and found that he had provided it to Kashif Khan in an effort to mislead the authorities.

A second NIP was sent in January 2022, prompting Kashif Khan to nominate a different individual at another address. This address was also linked to Atique Khan during the investigation.

Further Lies and False Claims

When questioned by Bradford Council's taxi licensing department, Kashif Khan put forward a third false story, claiming his vehicle had been at a garage for repairs during the red light incident. However, the court found that it was clear the two men had worked together to create multiple fabricated stories in a bid to avoid justice.

Sentences and Consequences

Atique Khan, from Grantham Terrace, Bradford, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to pervert the course of justice and was sentenced to 26 months in prison.

His co-defendant, Kashif Khan, from Durham Road, Bradford, admitted perverting the course of justice.

Despite having no previous criminal record, he was sentenced to 18 months in prison, suspended for two years. In addition to the suspended sentence, Kashif Khan was ordered to complete 250 hours of unpaid community work and attend 25 rehabilitation activity requirement days. He must also pay £360 in costs.

Legal Perspectives

Atique Khan's defence described the offenses as "amateurish" and emphasized that his co-defendant had approached him for assistance.

Kashif Khan’s defense, on the other hand, highlighted his previous good character, claiming the crime was an isolated incident.

The court noted that Kashif Khan was the primary caregiver for his family and had expressed deep remorse for his actions.

Police and Court Remarks

Recorder Patrick Palmer, who presided over the case, emphasized that both defendants had worked together to deceive the police and prevent the course of justice from being served.

He stated that Atique Khan's previous criminal history, including convictions for perverting the course of justice and fraud by false representation, was a significant factor in the severity of his sentence.

For more information on the case and to read the full details, you can visit the DBS Fee Changes Effective December 2024: Key Details and New Pricing