Southend-on-Sea City Council has successfully prosecuted two men for the unlawful use of Blue Badges, reinforcing its commitment to protecting disabled parking spaces and tackling fraud.
Southend-on-Sea City Council has successfully prosecuted two men for the unlawful use of Blue Badges, reinforcing its commitment to protecting disabled parking spaces and tackling fraud.
Alfie Gummer, 25, of Victoria Road, Horndon-on-the-Hill, pleaded guilty by post at Basildon Magistrates' Court on 31 March 2026 to the unlawful use of a Blue Badge.
The offence related to the misuse of a Blue Badge on double yellow lines in Leigh High Street, Old Leigh.
He was ordered to pay a £186 fine, a £74 victim surcharge, and £876 in Southend-on-Sea City Council costs, totalling £1,136.
Justin Carroll, 48, of Bournemouth Park Road, Southend-on-Sea, pleaded guilty by post at Basildon Magistrates' Court on 18 March 2026 to four counts of unlawful use of a Blue Badge.
He was ordered to pay £160 for each offence (£640 total) and £200 towards council costs, totalling £840.
The offences followed repeated misuse of a Blue Badge in a residents' permit area while the legitimate badge holder was not present.
A spokesperson for Southend-on-Sea City Council, said: "These prosecutions form part of the Council's wider strategy to safeguard legitimate Blue Badge holders and maintain public trust in the Blue Badge system.
"Misuse undermines support for those who genuinely need it and affects our community's resources, and where abuse is identified, the Council will take enforcement action. Publicising successful prosecutions is a key part of the Council's deterrence strategy."
If you suspect Blue Badge misuse or other council fraud, contact the Counter Fraud and Investigation Team (CFIT) on 01702 215254 or email CounterFraud@southend.gov.uk.
All information is treated confidentially.