17/02/2025
Ensuring the safety and dignity of people with disability is everyone’s responsibility.
Leading Senior Constable Tim Schnepf’s dedication to justice and safety is truly commendable. His work not only led to serious consequences for a reckless taxi driver but also highlighted the importance of protecting vulnerable passengers.
At Southern Rivers Community Services, we stand by the right of all individuals to access safe and reliable transport. Stories like this remind us why advocacy, accountability, and community support are so important.
Congratulations to Tim and all the award recipients for their outstanding service to people with disability!
Leading Senior Constable Tim Schnepf responded to a Triple Zero (000) call from Safe Transport Victoria requesting a breath test on a taxi driver who appeared intoxicated after dropping off passengers who were wheelchair users.
He never expected to uncover what followed.
The taxi driver’s evidentiary breath test (EBT) reading came back at 0.191 - nearly four times over the legal driving limit, let alone the zero-limit required for taxi drivers.
Despite the EBT reading, Tim never witnessed the taxi driver driving so he requested in-car CCTV.
The footage revealed distressing offences committed by the driver that went beyond drink driving, including physical assault, failure to secure wheelchairs and persons while driving.
This prompted an investigation where Tim sifted through hours of footage and made notes of every offence. He identified each victim and spoke with them, their family members, and their carers to get statements.
A total of 652 charges were laid against the taxi driver and he was sentenced to a two-year community corrections order with conditions for treatment and rehabilitation.
His licences – drivers and taxi – were cancelled and disqualified for three years. He was also fined and ordered to compensate fares he fraudulently obtained.
On 3 December 2024, the International Day of People with Disability, Tim received the Ben Bodna Award for exceptional leadership in support of people with disability at the Public Advocate Awards.
Tim was one of six members and two police stations who were recognised for their outstanding service to people with disability in Victoria, and their genuine commitment to delivering services that are inclusive and responsive to people with disability.
The award also inspired Tim to become a Victoria Police Disability Liaison Officer to further connect with and support the disability community in the road policing space.
“People with disability have the right to use our road networks safely, whether that’s driving themselves or accessing any form of transport. I want to be out there speaking with them and helping them feel comfortable and safe.”
Congratulations to all the award recipients.
