Private hire driver refused licence after sexual assault allegation surfaces

Accusation against PHV driver in 2017 comes back to haunt him

A Bolton private hire driver has had his application for a licence renewal refused after an allegation of sexual assault from 2017 emerged.

At a meeting of the licensing sub-committee, a report was submitted which set out details of an application for a licence to drive a private hire vehicle where there had been allegations of misconduct. 

The applicant did not attend the meeting even though this was his second opportunity to do so, the first being on 16 July.

The applicant had been informed after the first meeting that his application may be determined in his absence if he failed to attend the re-arranged meeting.  

The Sub-Committee heard verbal evidence from the Licensing Officer that the application to renew be refused on the basis that the Sub-Committee was not satisfied that the applicant was a fit and proper person to hold a licence. 

The Sub-Committee took account of Police intelligence of an allegation of sexual assault from July 2017 when the applicant was said to have asked the passenger at her house, “would you like me to take you to bed”, and also kissed the victim. The following day the victim reported the incident to the Police.

Subsequently, the victim disagreed with the applicant’s account, however didn’t wish to pursue the matter. 

A committee member said: "Members of the public and in particular, the elderly, infirm and children or vulnerable adults entrust their personal safety and wellbeing to private hire drivers whenever they take a journey. 

“Passengers often travel alone and are vulnerable to inappropriate behaviour. The Sub-Committee’s primary duty is of concern for the safety and well-being of the public. There is therefore reasonable cause to refuse to renew the private hire drivers licence." 

Image Source: Pixabay