A Douglas resident has been fined after launching a racist and abusive rant at a taxi driver during a late-night journey in the Isle of Man.
Court Hearing in Douglas
Brian Yewdall, 67, appeared before Douglas Courthouse where he admitted to using threatening, abusive, or insulting words or behaviour. The incident happened just after midnight on 23 August 2025, when Yewdall entered a taxi on Victoria Street.
According to the court, Yewdall immediately began questioning the driver’s background, asking “where he was from” and whether he was “even legal.” He continued with further insults, demanding to know “what’s wrong with your country.”
Refused to Pay Fare
When Yewdall refused to pay, the driver instead took him directly to Police Headquarters. There, the tirade escalated, with Yewdall reportedly asking officers if the driver was legally allowed to work and adding: “What’s wrong with the Manx people, why are we losing to them?”
Sentencing
In mitigation, Yewdall’s advocate said he was “deeply ashamed” of his actions and insisted the incident was “totally out of character.”
However, Deputy High Bailiff Rachael Braidwood criticised his conduct, telling him:
“You’ve not exactly covered yourself in glory with your behaviour on this particular night.”
Yewdall was fined £330 and ordered to pay £125 in prosecution costs.
The case highlights ongoing issues faced by taxi drivers, who continue to report incidents of verbal and racial abuse while working late-night shifts.
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