Fall River City Council denies taxi license applications for Robert Allen and David Carrero

During the recent Fall River City Council meeting, significant discussions centered around the denial of taxicab driver licenses for two applicants, Robert Allen and David Carrero, due to their criminal histories. The meeting highlighted the ongoing tension between public safety concerns and the desire for second chances within the community.

Robert Allen, who had previously been approved for a license two years ago, expressed confusion over the recent denial. Deputy Chief JT Horford of the Fall River Police Department explained that the decision was based on a concerning criminal background check. Allen argued that his record had not changed and emphasized his commitment to supporting his child, stating, “I’m trying to help support my child.” However, council members noted that the police department's recommendation was based on convictions rather than arrests, leading to a unanimous vote to deny his application.

Similarly, David Carrero faced scrutiny for his lengthy criminal history, which included convictions from over eight years ago. Carrero defended himself by stating that he had been driving taxis in New Bedford without issues for the past ten years. He described past incidents as misunderstandings and emphasized his efforts to improve his behavior through anger management. Despite his appeals, the police department maintained its stance, resulting in another denial.

The council's decisions reflect a broader commitment to public safety while also raising questions about the balance between accountability and rehabilitation. Both cases will be forwarded to the full council for further discussion, indicating that the conversation around licensing and criminal history will continue to evolve in Fall River. As the community grapples with these issues, the outcomes of such discussions will likely impact not only the applicants but also the residents who rely on safe and reliable transportation services.