West Norfolk Council Fines Unlicensed Taxi Driver Kevin Turner Over £2,000 After Undercover Investigation

Unlicensed Taxi Driver Fined Over £2,000

An undercover operation by West Norfolk Council has resulted in a significant penalty for an unlicensed taxi driver, Kevin Turner, who has been ordered to pay fines and costs exceeding £2,000. The council's action underscores its commitment to public safety in the taxi industry.

Background of the Case

West Norfolk Council received a tip-off regarding Turner's operation of an unlicensed private hire service in the Great Massingham area, near King's Lynn. In response, council officials conducted an undercover investigation, booking journeys with Turner on two separate occasions. He transported officials from West Acre to Great Massingham and from Great Massingham to King's Lynn using his vehicle.

Turner was later interviewed under caution, during which he admitted to multiple offences, including acting as a private hire driver without a license, operating an unlicensed private hire vehicle, and failing to insure his vehicle properly for taxi services.

Court Proceedings

On October 9, the council took the case to King’s Lynn Magistrates' Court. Turner did not attend the hearing and was found guilty in his absence of all four charges he had acknowledged during the interview. As a result of the court's ruling, Turner received a fine of £1,100 and was ordered to pay additional costs and surcharges amounting to £990. Furthermore, he has been issued with eight penalty points on his driving licence.

Council's Response

Jim Moriarty, the borough council’s cabinet member for licensing, emphasized the importance of proper licensing for drivers to ensure public safety. He stated, “Licensing of drivers exists to keep the public safe. Unlicensed drivers bypass all this and present a danger to the public.”

He also assured that the council would thoroughly investigate any reports of unlicensed taxi operations and prosecute offenders to maintain safety standards in the community.