Highland Council licence decision for rapist taxi driver sparks protest

A protest was held in Inverness after Highland Council's licensing committee voted to allow a convicted rapist taxi driver, David Brown, to retain his operator's licence. Brown was sentenced to six years and nine months for raping an 18‑year‑old passenger in December 2023 and dumping her in sub‑zero temperatures.

The six male councillors on the licensing committee voted to continue the licence, outvoting four female members who objected. The decision prompted public outcry, resignations of several councillors, and a petition that gathered nearly 6,000 signatures demanding the licence be revoked. Brown has filed an intention to appeal his conviction and sentence, with his appeal due by 21 July.

Protesters called for greater public safety and transparency, demanding the full council review the licence decision at a meeting scheduled for 4 August.