On 04/10/2023 a white BMW was found parked and unattended in a designated disabled bay on Cadogan Gardens.
Displayed in the vehicle was a blue disabled badge issued by Luton Borough Council. BBFI enquiries established that the badge had been cancelled due to the death of the badge holder. As a result a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) was issued to the vehicle and it was removed to the Lots Road car pound.
The BBFI investigator was at the Lots Road car pound when he was notified that the vehicle was being collected by its keeper, Mr E. Santos. The investigator interviewed Mr Santos under caution at the car pound. Under caution Mr Santos admitted to purchasing the disabled badge for £80 and using it to obtain free parking on 04/10/2023.
The badge was permanently seized and Mr Santos paid the PCN and car pound fees. During the investigation it was discovered by BBFI that this vehicle was previously seen using the same badge elsewhere and whilst the driver was not seen, a PCN had been issued. This PCN has been paid (£65). Mr Santos was represented by the duty solicitor. He was found guilty under section 2 and 6 of the Fraud Act 2006. and ordered to pay a fine of £461, Costs: £1,945.00,
