Public Information Exchange

Blue Badges Sold on Black Market
09/01/2012

POLICE are warning disabled badge holders to be on their guard as the permits are being stolen and sold on the black market.

A house was burgled in Stockton Road, Hartlepool, by thieves who swiped car keys and a purse.

They used the keys to get into a car on the drive and made off with the blue disabled badge, leaving the car behind.

The badges are said to be sold for thousands of pounds to people in big cities where parking is limited.

The permits are a lifeline for millions of people as they allow them to park in disabled bays, which are usually closer to important services.

Superintendent Glenn Gudgeon, of Hartlepool Police, said the thefts have been going on for a long time across the country and feed markets in places such as London and Manchester.

He told the Mail: “They have become a valuable commodity and can be worth a lot of money.

“You only need look on the internet to see how they can swap hands.

“People need these badges, they are given out for a reason.

“Obviously they have to be displayed when needed, but my message is that if you are parked somewhere where they don’t need to be on show, put them out of sight.”

The badge was reported missing at 8.46am on January 5.

Supt Gudgeon added: “Someone has broken into the house and then the car. It shows how valuable they are.

“It is also important people keep their car keys in a safe place in their homes.

“We would appeal for anyone with information to come forward.

“If someone is seen trying to sell one of these badges or if anyone suddenly has one that isn’t disabled, let us know.”

Tough new measures are being imposed to crack down on those abusing the parking system.

Since January 1, a new blue badge design that is harder to forge has become available.

Previously, the badges were made from card and handwritten but disabled drivers can now apply for an electronically printed badge, much like a driving licence.

They have security features such as a unique hologram, digital photo and serial number allowing parking attendants to check for genuine badges more easily through the windscreen.

Speaking ahead of the launch, Transport Minister Norman Baker, said: “Motorists who pretend to be disabled to get some free parking are frankly disgraceful.

“They prevent real blue badge holders from using parking bays designed for those genuinely in need and they cheat the vast majority of road users who play fair when they park their cars.

“Our new blue badge will be as secure as a banknote and anyone thinking of faking it can forget it.

“We are also tightening up on enforcement and eligibility so there will be no way to scam the system.”

Anyone with information about the theft is asked to ring Cleveland Police on (01642) 326326 or Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.

For Anti-theft Blue Badge Protectors click here.

Published by 'Hartlepool Mail' on Monday 9 January 2012 13:17