What really goes into investigation?

Recently BBFi have been in the press a lot, talking about blue badge fraud and the importance of enforcing the scheme. Whilst we are thrilled to see so much support from the public, we also want to use this as a moment to remind you that if you suspect someone of fraudulently using a blue badge, to report it via the proper channels and do not attempt to tackle the issue yourself. We know it can be tempting to call out what we perceive to be injustice, however by doing so, you may be doing far more harm than good to our cause.  

Firstly, not all disabilities are visible and people with conditions such as Cystic Fibrosis, Multiple Sclerosis, Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and many others, are legitimate blue badge holders who have gone through an appropriate screening process. We’ve heard from many of these badge holders who over the years have been harassed or attacked by members of the public who have made presumptions about their legitimacy based on their appearance, which can be equally as distressing and violating as having your badge stolen or cloned. Our team, and those working on the frontlines of blue badge investigations, are working to keep everyone who appropriately uses the scheme safe.  

Secondly, our blue badge investigators are all highly trained former police officers, used to dealing with conflict, aggression and even violence, which is more common than you may realise. In the face of this, they understand how to keep themselves and others safe, whilst maintaining the integrity of the case for potential prosecution.  

Recently during a routine patrol in a quiet, residential street, one of our investigators checked a vehicle displaying a blue badge. The badge was flagged as stolen. As the investigator called for a civil enforcement officer and arranged for the vehicle to be towed, the situation escalated dramatically. The vehicle’s user, who we will refer to as person R, ran from their house and immediately became violent, grabbing our investigator’s mobile phone, ripping off their body camera, and dragging them across the pavement. No words were exchanged. Just violence.  Throughout this, our investigator stayed calm, protected themselves, the evidence, and ensured that the proper channels were followed in order to obtain arrest.  

And here’s why that matters.  

Later, at trial, person R was convicted of several serious criminal offences: assault by beating, theft, and using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour to cause harassment, alarm or distress. HIs first victim, our investigator, endured over an hour of live testimony at a full day trial, during which person R was so disruptive that they needed to be restrained.  Person R’s second victim was the elderly disabled lady who had her blue badge stolen from her car at a car wash that is, incidentally, owned by person R.  

The investigation into person R revealed several other causes for concern. Person R lives in social housing and was at the time of arrest pursuing a Right to Buy application with over a £135K discount. The means form that was presented at court stated a very low income inconsistent with someone making such a substantial property purchase. These financial discrepancies raise serious questions about the accuracy of their other court submissions. The stolen badge originated from a business that person R owns, suggesting the possibility of systematic targeting of vulnerable customers. All of this can now be investigated properly, and appropriate action taken through the proper channels. 

Blue badge fraud investigations are not routine parking checks. They can be dangerous. Investigators face real risks when confronting individuals who also may be involved in broader criminal enterprises. Cases often uncover multiple victims; from the disabled badge holders whose independence is stolen to the public purse affected by fraud.  Our investigators work to protect blue badge holders and ensure this vital scheme benefits those who genuinely need it. If you witness blue badge misuse, please report it through the proper channels. 

BBFI Public Sector Investigations was created to support the disabled community and we remain committed to protecting their rights and enforcing the Blue Badge scheme.

Contact us now – https://bbfi.org.uk