Two drivers convicted for Blue Badge misuse
Thursday, 4 April 2024
Two drivers from Dunstable have been convicted for improperly using a disabled person's badge as part of a council-driven effort to tackle Blue Badge disabled parking fraud.
The drivers were convicted at Luton Magistrates' Court this week (2 April). They were spotted by our officers during a targeted enforcement exercise in October 2023.
Both drivers claimed they were using their spouses’ badges to collect medicine for the Blue Badge holder when they were not present, which is against the rules.
Sharon Owens of Weatherby in Dunstable was spotted at the Dunstable Centre car park, while Alan Fletcher of Maidenbower Avenue in Dunstable was observed at Ashton Square Car Park.
Mrs Owen incurred fines and penalties totalling £362, while Mr Fletcher faced similar penalties amounting to £321.
Councillor John Baker, our Executive Member for Finance, said:
The Blue Badge is strictly for the assigned holder's use only. Others can't use it for errands unless the badge holder is in the vehicle or being picked-up or dropped-off.
Residents have told the council’s independent administration that parking enforcement should be one of our priorities, so we’ll be clamping down further on Blue Badge fraud. If we find people using badges inappropriately, we will act. Misuse could result in legal consequences, potentially leading to a criminal conviction and fines of up to £1,000, alongside badge confiscation.
If you suspect someone of illegally using a Blue Badge, you can report them by calling 0300 300 4154 or by emailing car.badges@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk.