An ice cream seller has been ordered to pay more than £2,000 after being caught trading without the proper licence on five separate occasions.
Mr Hacene Salmi, of Oakleigh Avenue in Edgware, pleaded guilty to street trading without the required consent and was fined the maximum amount allowed. He was ordered to pay a total of £2,472, which included the fine, court costs and a victim surcharge.
The offences took place between 2021 and 2024, with Mr Salmi being reported each time by officers from Hertfordshire Constabulary to Three Rivers District Council’s licensing team. Despite earlier warnings, he was again seen trading without a valid licence and was approached by police.
Although Mr Salmi previously held a Street Trading Consent with the council, it expired in 2018. Despite making several attempts to get a new licence, he was unsuccessful.
The case was heard at St Albans Magistrates’ Court on 21 May 2025, in front of magistrates Stuart Jack and Michelle Moses.
Cllr Sarah Nelmes, Deputy Council Leader and Lead Member for General Public Services, said: “Despite being fully aware of the street trading requirements Mr Salmi had to adhere to, he decided to continue to trade illegally in our district, taking away business from licenced traders.
“Let this serve as a reminder that all individuals who wish to trade in our district must apply for the required consent to do so. We will not hesitate to take enforcement action on anyone trading illegally.”
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