The Council has successfully prosecuted a man for blue badge fraud, reinforcing its commitment to tackling misuse of the system and safeguarding support for those who genuinely need it.
On 23 October 2025, Innocent Kadowonda, 40, of Gordon Road, Southend-on-Sea, pleaded guilty at Southend-on-Sea Magistrates' Court to unlawful use of a disabled person's parking badge and theft. The badge had been issued to a local care organisation and was not intended for personal use.
Mr Kadowonda was fined £153, ordered to pay a Victim Surcharge of £61, and £500 in Council costs.
The incident occurred in February 2025 and was investigated by the Council's Counter Fraud and Investigation Team over several months.
Councillor Martin Terry, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Regulatory Services, said: "This prosecution demonstrates our determination to protect the integrity of the blue badge scheme, and we will continue to crack down on this disgraceful behaviour.
"Misuse undermines support for those who genuinely need it and affects our community's resources. Anyone who attempts to exploit the system can expect action from us."
If you suspect blue badge misuse or other council fraud, contact the Counter Fraud and Investigation Team on 01702 215254 or email CounterFraud@southend.gov.uk. All information is treated confidentially.
Additional informaton
- the case began on 10 February 2025, when Civil Enforcement Officers observed a silver Mercedes parked on double yellow lines outside a restaurant on Southchurch Road. The driver produced a blue badge, which was retained due to the absence of a photograph, raising suspicion of misuse
- Blue Badges issued to organisations caring for disabled people do not have photographs but display the organisation's name
- investigations revealed the badge had been issued to a local care organisation, which reported losing several badges in July 2024
- Mr Kadowonda told Counter Fraud and Investigation Team (CFIT) Officers he found the badge in a car park and intended to return it but did not fully answer further questions
- magistrates recognised his remorse but emphasised that his actions deprived others of the use of the badge
- the Council's Counter Fraud and Investigation Team investigates suspected fraud against the Council
- this prosecution forms part of the Council's wider strategy to safeguard legitimate badge holders and maintain public trust in the blue badge system