Summary
Two women in the UK were sexually abused by their driving instructor, Michael Florek, who was found guilty of abusing five students. They are campaigning for stricter rules and protections for driving students, similar to those in classrooms. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) acknowledges inappropriate behavior is unacceptable and is reviewing its policies.
Key Facts
- Michael Florek, a driving instructor, was found guilty of sexually assaulting five students between 2016 and 2021.
- Two victims, Phoebe Horrocks and Morgane Chapman, are campaigning for tighter regulation of driving instructors.
- Florek received a suspended prison sentence and a 10-year ban from teaching driving.
- The DVSA stated inappropriate behavior by instructors is not acceptable and is reviewing its approach.
- Fear Free, a charity, launched a petition for greater protection for driving students.
- The campaigners want driving instructors to be considered as positions of trust under the Sex Offences Act.
- Changing the law would make any sexual activity with students under 18 illegal, even if consensual.
- The Driving Instructors' Association supports stricter regulations and has been advocating for mandatory safeguarding training.
