Taxi Driver Online

Ban and fine for unlicensed ‘cabbie’



A “COWBOY cabbie” was caught out twice without a licence and insurance policy – and has now been banned from the roads.

Ivor Jenkins, of Penrhiwfer Road, Tonypandy, now faces a £600 fine and a 12-month disqualification after police and licensing officers cracked down on unlicensed drivers.

The 47-year-old was also ordered to pay £100 costs.

Rhondda Magistrates’ court heard the joint operation between the council and police caught Jenkins driving without the required licenses and insurance on two separate occasions.

He pleaded guilty to two counts of using a vehicle without a Private Hire Vehicle license, two offences of not having a PHV operator’s license, two charges of not having a PHV driver’s licence and two counts of uninsured driving.

Jenkins asked the court not to disqualify him because he was responsible for the care of his ill mother and had a son with behavioural difficulties who attends a school outside the catchment area.

But magistrates chose to fine him a total of £600 and a issue a 12-month driving ban.

Chief Inspector Richard Erskine – who heads community policing in RCT – welcomed the prosecution. Speaking after the court case he said: “We are approaching a busy time of year as far as the taxi and private-hire vehicle trade is concerned.

“People, many of whom may be vulnerable, will rely on such vehicles to take them to and from festivities, shops, doctors and so on. It is vital these vehicles and those who drive them are legal and road worthy.”

Councillor John David, RCT’s cabinet member for licensing, said: “The huge majority of operators work hard with us to ensure they remain within the law and fulfil their responsibilities.

“This particular case highlights why it is so important such operators and drivers take advantage of the free help, expertise and support on hand from our licensing officers to ensure they offer a top-class service.”

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Think of how stupid the average person is, and realize half of them are stupider than that.
George Carlin

Then find yourself a local licensed taxi/PH firm who will gladly run your mum and boy where ever you want them to go. For a fair fare of course.

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IDFIMH