Bristol private hire vehicle driver found guilty of illegally plying for hire faces further appeals
A private hire vehicle (PHV) driver in Bristol has been found guilty of illegally plying for hire, but legal proceedings are far from over, according to Avon and Somerset Police’s ‘Taxi Cop’, PC Patrick Quinton.
The driver was initially convicted on four counts by Magistrates after being caught in October 2023. Two of those convictions were appealed to Bristol Crown Court, where PC Quinton gave evidence. The Judge upheld the convictions and re-sentenced the driver.
However, the driver continues to operate while appealing the revocation of his PHV licence by the local council. That appeal is set to be heard at the Magistrates’ Court in mid-March.
PC Quinton acknowledged the frustration of taxi drivers who have reported the driver and explained that the lengthy legal process, not inaction, is the reason the driver is still working. He assured the industry that an update would be provided once all proceedings are finalised.
PC Quinton said on 14 February: “I was at Bristol Crown Court for a trial. A private hire vehicle driver I found illegally plying for hire in October 2023 had been found guilty by Magistrates.
“The driver appealed 2 of the 4 convictions to the Crown Court. I gave evidence to the Judge, who also found the driver guilty and re-sentenced him. It's not the end though...
“The Council revoked his PHV drivers licence and the driver is appealing that decision to the Magistrates Court with the case due to be heard in mid March.
“Once all matters are concluded I will update you with the final result.”
