A taxi driver has been prosecuted after fraudulently using a disabled parking badge to park illegally.

One down, how many thousands to go?

Millions, we seem to have an epedemic of them round here at the moment, you know the ones who park up then put their blue badge in the window then run across to the bank.

Taxi driver in blue badge prosecution


A taxi driver has been prosecuted after fraudulently using a disabled parking badge to park illegally.

Mortuza Ali, 38, of Cardington Road, Bedford appeared at Bedford Magistrates Court on November 21 and was sentenced to a 12 month supervision order, as well as 200 hours of unpaid work and £100 costs.

Since August 2011 Ali was using his late father’s disabled badge, a Blue Badge, to park in Bedford town centre.

The Blue Badge is only issued to people with severe mobility problems, which Ali does not have, allowing them much needed concessions including free parking and parking on double yellow lines.

Councillor Shan Hunt, portfolio holder for revenues and benefits, customer services and ICT at Borough Hall, said: “It is unforgivable to abuse a scheme specifically designed to help people with disabilities and mobility problems live more active and independent lives.”

She added: “I hope this case sends out a warning to motorists that we will take firm action against anyone caught abusing the system.”

The prosecution comes as part of a council campaign to prevent improper use of Blue Badges and disabled parking bays.

If you believe someone is fraudulently using a Blue Badge call 0800 917 8491 or email blue.badges@bedford.gov.uk

source: http://www.bedfordtoday.co.uk/news/loca ... -1-4544607