BALLOON-ING PROBLEM: Private hire driver arrested after being caught inhaling NOS behind the wheel
- Perry Richardson
- Aug 29, 2025
- 2 min read
A private hire driver has been arrested in Avon and Somerset after members of the public spotted him inhaling nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, while in his vehicle.
PC Patrick Quinton, known locally as the ‘Taxi Cop’, confirmed the incident earlier this week. The driver was seen using balloons to inhale the Class C drug and was also found with a quantity of canisters in the vehicle. He did not hold valid insurance for the vehicle he was driving.
The individual was arrested on suspicion of multiple offences. PC Quinton stated that the matter would be passed on to the local Licensing Authority, who will consider whether further action should be taken in regard to the driver’s private hire licence.
He reminded others in the trade that nitrous oxide is now classified as a controlled substance in the UK. Possession or supply of the drug for its psychoactive effects is illegal. Its use can also render a driver unfit to operate a vehicle and may result in a driving disqualification.
PC Quinton said: “Following the recent arrest of a Private Hire Driver in our area I wanted to remind you of the law regarding Nitrous Oxide/ laughing gas ("NOS").
“In this case, members of the public saw a driver inhaling NOS from balloons. He had a quantity of canisters in the vehicle and was not insured to drive the vehicle.
“He was arrested on suspicion of a number of offences. I will update you when the outcome at Court is known, and the Licensing Authority will be made aware shortly so they can take action as they see fit.
“Please be aware that NOS is now a Class C drug in the UK. It is an offence to supply or possess it for wrongful inhalation. It can also make you unfit to drive due to its psychoactive effects leading to a loss of driving licence.
“This is one of the cases I am working on today.”
