Leighton Buzzard woman misused Blue Badge belonging to dead relative
A Leighton Buzzard woman has been convicted for using a Blue Badge belonging to a relative who died eight months ago.
Ms Leoni Miceli, of St Andrews Close, was convicted at Luton Magistrates’ Court and handed fines and penalties totalling £1,296.
The offence occurred on May 1 at West Street Multi-Storey Car Park during a targeted enforcement day by Central Beds Council. The woman had parked in a disabled bay and falsely claimed the badge holder was collecting a prescription, but investigations revealed the badge holder had died eight months earlier.
In a written statement, Ms Miceli later claimed it was an emergency and that her mother was having a seizure in town. This was investigated and proven to be false, as her mother was identified as a passenger in the vehicle during the offence.
The offender was convicted on November 11 for misusing a Blue Badge belonging to a deceased relative under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 and the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970.
Councillor John Baker, Executive Member for Finance and Highways at Central Bedfordshire Council, said: “Misusing a Blue Badge, especially one belonging to a deceased person, is unacceptable. This conviction sends a strong message that such actions will not be tolerated. We will continue to investigate and prosecute any abuse of the scheme.”
A spokesperson for Central Beds Council, added: “We continue our commitment to protecting residents and ensuring fairness by taking decisive action against those who misuse public schemes or exploit vulnerable people.”
If you suspect someone is illegally using a Blue Badge, report it by calling 0300 300 4154 or emailing [email protected].