TAXI and private hire drivers are victims of crime far more often than they are criminals.
But the case of Terence Collins, who has begun a 16-year prison sentence for two rapes, is truly shocking.
Despite all the regulation and monitoring of the trade, a dangerous man preyed on two people who should have been safe in his vehicle.
Industry rep John Tye has responded with a laudable call for a new partnership to ensure greater vigilance. If others respond in the right spirit, it should surely be possible to ensure that Collins remains a horrific one-off case.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here