Taxi Cop catches second unlicensed taxi driver in a week during Avon and Somerset operation
A driver operating without a taxi or private hire licence has been caught by Avon and Somerset Police after an undercover operation.
PC Patrick Quinton, known as the force’s ‘Taxi Cop’, confirmed he stopped the vehicle mid-journey while a plain clothes officer was on board. The driver, who had been taking public bookings without the necessary licence, has been reported for multiple offences and now faces legal action.
PC Quinton revealed this was the second unlicensed vehicle he had intercepted in a week, with both cases heading to court. He has pledged to provide further updates once proceedings conclude.
The operation highlights ongoing enforcement efforts to protect public safety and ensure only properly licensed drivers operate on the roads.
PC Quinton said: “This morning I dealt with an unlicensed driver. I had received information that this person was taking bookings from the public. He does not hold any form of taxi or private hire licence.
“We arranged for a trip, and I stopped the vehicle mid-journey with a plain clothes officer being carried. The driver has been reported for a number of offences and once it's been to Court I will update you on the results.
“This is the 2nd unlicensed vehicle I've dealt with this week, and both will be going to Court.“
