Former Tamworth taxi driver prosecuted for smoking in licensed vehicle

Tamworth Borough Council has successfully prosecuted a former licensed taxi driver after he was caught smoking in a licensed Hackney Carriage.

Stephen Turner, who was licensed as a taxi driver with Tamworth Borough Council at the time of the offence, smoked in a licensed Hackney Carriage on 30 May 2025.

Smoking in the vehicle constituted an offence under Section 7 of the Health Act 2006, which relates to smoking in a smoke-free place.

Following the offence, Stephen Turner was initially issued with a fixed penalty notice. When the original notice was not paid, Tamworth Borough Council made the decision to prosecute. Stephen Turner is no longer a taxi driver with the council.

The case was dealt with at Cannock Magistrates’ Court through the Single Justice Procedure on 9 June 2026, where the offence was proved.

Stephen Turner was fined £60, ordered to pay £150 in costs and a £24 victim surcharge, bringing the total amount payable to £234.

The prosecution provides an important reminder to licensed drivers of their responsibility to comply with smoke-free legislation when operating licensed vehicles.

Councillor David Foster, portfolio holder for environmental sustainability, recycling and waste at Tamworth Borough Council, said:

“People using licensed taxis should be able to expect a clean and safe environment when they make their journey.

“Licensed drivers have a responsibility to comply with the law and the standards expected of them. Smoking in a licensed vehicle is not acceptable, and where offences are identified the council can take appropriate action.

“In this case, a fixed penalty notice was initially issued but was not paid, leading the council to pursue prosecution. The successful prosecution should serve as a clear reminder that these requirements need to be taken seriously.

“We would encourage all licensed drivers to make sure they understand and follow the rules that apply to their vehicles.”