Middlesbrough Taxi Driver Loses Licence for Dangerous Pursuit in Stockton

A private hire taxi driver in Middlesbrough has had his licence revoked following an alarming incident involving a rapid pursuit of a cyclist through Stockton’s streets. The decision to revoke the licence was made by Middlesbrough Council’s licensing committee after reviewing CCTV footage and hearing evidence regarding the driver’s behavior.

The taxi driver, licensed by Middlesbrough Council since January 16, 2024, was due to hold his private hire licence until December 31, 2024. However, concerns raised over his driving conduct led to the revocation of his licence in November 2024, following a detailed review by the council.

Recently Middlesbrough Council also denied a man’s application for a taxi licence due to a previous criminal conviction.

CCTV Footage Reveals Dangerous Pursuit

According to meeting minutes, on June 10, 2024, Stockton Council provided Middlesbrough licensing officers with CCTV footage. The footage allegedly captured a Middlesbrough-registered taxi being driven in a manner described as “falling far below” the standard expected of licensed private hire drivers.

The incident occurred at approximately 12:35 a.m. on June 9, 2024, on Yarm Lane, Stockton. CCTV footage revealed a cyclist and another individual carrying a dog conversing with the taxi occupants. Moments later, a passenger exited the taxi and pursued the cyclist, who fled the area.

Further footage showed the same cyclist passing the Thomas Sheraton pub at 12:36 a.m., followed by the taxi in “rapid pursuit” on Park Terrace just one minute later. Additional footage captured the vehicle dangerously chasing the cyclist across a car park and onto a pavement.

Driver’s Account and Admission

The driver, who appeared before the licensing committee on August 21, 2024, confirmed that the vehicle seen in the footage was indeed his. He admitted to driving the vehicle during the incident but claimed the situation arose due to a personal grievance with the cyclist.

The driver stated:

"The cyclist had previously burgled my taxi and stolen items of sentimental value."

He also explained that his presence at Boat House Lane was coincidental, as one of his associates needed to use the toilet. He emphasized that the cyclist was someone he had not interacted with since the incident, as the individual was currently in prison.

Despite the driver’s explanation, the committee expressed doubts about his version of events, particularly his claim that he was pressured by passengers to chase the cyclist.

Licensing Committee’s Decision

After reviewing the CCTV footage and considering the evidence, the licensing committee identified several concerns regarding the driver’s conduct:

• The driver appeared to run a red light during the incident.
• The committee found his driving to be "dangerous and erratic," as captured in the footage.
• The driver provided inconsistent accounts, with the committee concluding he was "dishonest" and “lying” about being pressured by passengers.
• His claim of being "on a job" at the time of the incident was disproven.

In its decision, the committee stated:

"Based on the evidence presented, we do not consider the driver to be a ‘fit and proper’ person to hold a licence. For the safety of the public, his private hire licence is revoked with immediate effect."

Background of the Driver

The driver had maintained a clean record prior to this incident, with no driving or criminal convictions. However, the committee emphasized that the dangerous driving observed in the footage was sufficient to justify the revocation of his licence.

The committee also noted that licensed drivers are expected to uphold high standards of safety and professionalism, given their responsibility for transporting members of the public.

Implications for Public Safety

This case highlights the importance of stringent standards for licensed private hire drivers in the UK. Licensing authorities must prioritize public safety by ensuring that drivers meet the required standards of conduct and professionalism. Middlesbrough Council’s decision reflects its commitment to safeguarding passengers and maintaining the integrity of the licensing system.