Councillor Resigns Following Licence Decision Controversy
John Grafton has resigned from the Highland Council's licensing committee after voting to allow a convicted rapist taxi driver to retain his operator's licence. Reflecting on the decision, Grafton acknowledged that with hindsight and additional information unavailable at the time, a different outcome might have been appropriate.
Background on the Case
David Brown, aged 50, from Croy near Inverness, was sentenced in May to six years and nine months imprisonment for the assault of an 18-year-old female passenger in December 2023.
Last month, the Highland licensing committee met privately and decided to take no action regarding Brown's operator's licence after a request from his family. This decision has faced criticism from rape support organizations.
Official Responses and Reactions
Police Scotland had formally objected to the continuation of the operator's licence under Brown's name. Highland Council has indicated that the matter will be referred to a future full council meeting for further review.
Rape and Sexual Abuse Service Highland and Rape Crisis Scotland expressed concern that the decision sent a "harmful message" concerning women's safety.
Councillor Grafton's Statement
In a public statement, Councillor Grafton explained his vote in favour of taking no action was motivated by a desire to "protect" Brown's family.
"With the benefit of hindsight and information that was not available on the day of the meeting, an alternative decision could have been taken."
Grafton stated that he had consulted officials regarding any legal implications related to the licence and was reassured that Brown "presented no current threat." He further noted:
"The remaining vehicle licence would expire well before he was due for release."
He added that his decision was influenced by compassion and his understanding of the licensing committee's role, emphasizing:
"It is my compassion and my processing which led me to this decision on the day. We have been told in licensing several times that we are not here to punish – that is the job of the courts."
Grafton also remarked that his resignation from the licensing committee and board was not taken lightly and that he had lost sleep over the matter.
Details on Licensing and Suspension
An operator's licence permits a vehicle to be driven by an individual holding a taxi driver's licence. Brown's taxi driver's licence was suspended in January 2024.
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