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Posted on the 6th May 2025 in PHTM News
CAUGHT SHORT MIDDLESBROUGH PRIVATE HIRE DRIVER KEEPS LICENCE AFTER REVEALING HEALTH ISSUE
A Middlesbrough-based private hire driver who was caught urinating in Stockton High Street has been permitted to keep his licence after revealing a health condition to the Middlesbrough Council's licensing committee.
Despite facing potential revocation, the driver was ultimately issued a warning.
The incident, which occurred on November 7, 2024, at approximately 3:52 am, was captured on CCTV and reported to Middlesbrough Council by Stockton's Trading Standards Team. The driver had already paid a fine issued by Stockton Council prior to the licensing committee meeting.
During the hearing, it was revealed that the driver, licensed since January 2017, suffers from a health condition that necessitates frequent trips to the toilet.
Minutes from the meeting detailed that when interviewed, "the driver admitted to the incident and explained he had been ‘caught short’ and took medication for a health condition, a symptom of which was requiring the toilet more frequently. A check of the driver’s most recent medical report confirmed this."
The driver, who confirmed the accuracy of the reported facts, addressed the committee to plead his case. He explained to officers that he is a type two diabetic, a condition that requires him to use the toilet every couple of hours.
He stated he was concerned about soiling himself if he attempted to find a public restroom but claimed he checked to ensure he was not visible and was unaware of the CCTV.
The driver considered the situation an "emergency type" incident, a point noted as mitigation by the committee.
While the committee decided the driver could retain his licence, they also issued a clear caution regarding future conduct. The driver was reminded of the Code of Conduct, which explicitly prohibits public urination.
The committee concluded that a warning "was appropriate to educate the driver that this behaviour would not be tolerated."
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