Two North London men have been hit with substantial fines totaling £1,160 for committing Blue Badge fraud in a recent court case. Awat Piroti from Enfield and David Knott from Palmers Green appeared at Highbury Corner Magistrates Court on January 2, 2022, where they admitted to using Blue Badges that did not belong to them.
Enfield Council's Crusade Against Blue Badge Abuse
Enfield Council brought these cases forward as part of its ongoing campaign to crack down on people who abuse the Blue Badge system. The offenses occurred in Lodge Drive Car Park in Palmers Green (N13) on June 3, 2025, and June 11, 2025, respectively.
Details of the Fraudulent Activities
Council investigations revealed that the Blue Badge used by Awat Piroti was actually stolen property. Piroti claimed he found the badge and placed it on his dashboard for what he described as safe keeping, with intentions to return it. He denied any knowledge that the badge was stolen or that he used it to obtain free parking benefits.
David Knott's case involved a badge that did not belong to him and had been previously reported as lost by the legitimate holder. The badge had been officially cancelled before Knott used it fraudulently.
Consequences and Penalties
After being caught, both men faced immediate consequences beyond the court proceedings. Their vehicles were towed to the council's pound, where they had to pay release fees to retrieve them.
The judge imposed identical penalties on both defendants:
- A £200 fine
- An £80 victim surcharge
- A £300 contribution toward prosecution costs
This resulted in total penalties of £580 for each individual, combining to £1,160 overall.
Council's Strong Stance on Blue Badge Misuse
Cllr Rick Jewell, Cabinet Member for Transport and Waste at Enfield Council, emphasized the seriousness of these offenses. Misusing a Blue Badge is fraud and is not a victimless crime, he stated firmly.
Jewell explained that residents frequently contact him with suspicions about Blue Badges being used by people other than those to whom they were issued. People are selfishly taking accessible parking spaces that are meant for people in real need, he noted, adding that the council will continue to clamp down on this illegal behavior and bring offenders to justice.
The council actively encourages residents to report any concerns about Blue Badge misuse so they can investigate and take appropriate action.
Understanding Blue Badge Regulations
Blue Badges are designed to help people with disabilities or health conditions park closer to their destinations. It is illegal to use:
- Expired Blue Badges
- Cancelled Blue Badges
- Stolen Blue Badges
- Fake or altered Blue Badges
It is also an offense for badge holders to give their badge to someone else when they are not with the vehicle. Those found misusing Blue Badges can face prosecution, fines up to £1,000, or have their badge confiscated.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts by local authorities to protect accessible parking for those who genuinely need it, while penalizing those who attempt to exploit the system for personal convenience.
