Posted on the 6th February 2026 in PHTM News
FORMER PRISON OFFICER CONVICTED OF DOMESTIC ABUSE GRANTED NORTH AYRSHIRE TAXI LICENCE
A man from Irvine who was convicted of domestic abuse has been granted a three-year taxi driver’s licence after telling councillors he had "turned his life around."
Darren McCartney, a former prison officer and hostage negotiator, appeared before the North Ayrshire Licensing Committee following objections from Police Scotland regarding his criminal record.
The committee heard that in January 2024, Mr McCartney was handed a community payback order and a non-harassment order for abusive behaviour toward a woman, which included aggressive shouting, threats of violence, and unwanted visits to her home.
Addressing the committee, Mr McCartney apologised for his past actions, explaining they occurred during the breakdown of his marriage. “I put the conviction down to a bad period in my life – I lost my career as a prison officer and my marriage,” he said. “I have served my punishment and put my hands to what I did wrong.
"I did not handle the situation well and have learned through working with social work different ways to handle potentially aggressive or challenging situations.”
He also addressed a conviction for driving without insurance, describing it as part of the same difficult period.
Mr McCartney insisted he posed "no danger to the public," noting his previous experience in high-pressure roles and his desire to provide for his child.
He told the committee, “I am in a much better place and moved back to Irvine where I was born and bred, I am looking to get back to work and have a child I want to provide for as I have for most of my life.”
While acknowledging the seriousness of the charges, the committee ultimately voted unanimously to grant the licence.
Councillor Christina Larsen noted that the safety of residents is the top priority but appreciated Mr McCartney's honesty.
“We have high expectations of our taxi drivers and we have to take this seriously because of the charges and your behaviour at the time,” she said.
“I appreciate you have been very open with what is going on in your life... We hope that should you come across any issues we hope you deal with them a lot better.”
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