Why it matters: Blue Badge fraud deprives genuine disabled people of accessible parking spaces they depend on for independence and mobility.
The big picture: Valon Aliaj, of Woolwich Common, London, pleaded guilty at Ipswich Magistrates' Court on 13 January to wrongfully displaying a Blue Badge, contrary to Section 117 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984.
The 24-hour disabled parking permit was discovered being misused in Norwich Road Shoppers Car Park by an Ipswich Borough Council parking officer on 14 May 2024.
The details:
Aliaj initially claimed the badge belonged to a family member
When investigated by Suffolk County Council, he changed his story and said he had found it in the car park
He was fined £166 and ordered to pay:
£1,500 in investigatory and legal costs
£66 victim surcharge
What they're saying: "Blue Badges are an essential lifeline for residents with mobility challenges, offering them the access they need to live independent lives," said Councillor Beccy Hopfensperger, Suffolk County Council's cabinet member for adult social care.
"The illegal misuse of a Blue Badge is unacceptable, and we will continue to take robust action to protect the rights of legitimate badge holders and uphold the integrity of the scheme."
The bottom line: The prosecution is part of ongoing efforts by Suffolk County Council to crack down on Blue Badge fraud, which can result in fines of up to £1,000 plus additional costs.
