Licensed driver convicted of rape launches appeal as Highland Council licensing row continues to escalate

David Brown, the Inverness taxi driver jailed for raping an 18‑year‑old passenger, has lodged an appeal against both his conviction and sentence. The appeal, confirmed by the Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service, must be formally submitted by 21 July and now forms the central development in a case that has already prompted significant public and political reaction.

Brown, 50, was sentenced in May to six years and nine months for the December 2023 attack, during which he drove the passenger to a remote location between Strathpeffer and Dingwall and assaulted her. His conviction followed a High Court trial in April.

The appeal comes shortly after Highland Council’s licensing committee voted last month to allow Brown’s taxi operator’s licence to continue. His driver’s licence had already been suspended in January 2024 when the allegations emerged, but the operator’s licence remained active.

Police Scotland objected to the continuation of the operator’s licence, citing the seriousness of the offence. The committee was told that Brown’s wife had been operating the business and relied on the licence for income, and that she would be eligible to apply for her own licence in six months.

The committee voted six to four in favour of allowing the licence to continue. According to widely reported coverage, six male councillors supported continuation, while four female councillors opposed it. The decision generated extensive public criticism and national media attention.

The fallout has included multiple resignations and suspensions. Four councillors who supported continuation — Sean Kennedy, John Grafton, Duncan Macpherson and Willie MacKay — stepped down from the committee and its board. MacKay resigned as a councillor, and Grafton was expelled by the Highland Liberal Democrats. Another councillor, Dr Chris Birt, was suspended by his SNP group.

Councillors involved have stated that the decision was based on licensing criteria and the impact on Brown’s wife rather than Brown himself. However, the outcome has prompted calls for a review of licensing procedures and decision‑making processes.