By Della Hasselle
DNAinfo Reporter/Producer
MEATPACKING DISTRICT — The Taxi and Limousine Commission and the NYPD are teaming up to crack down on illegal cabs and limousines, particularly in the Meatpacking District, the agency says.
The TLC has conducted several raids over the past few months on illegal cabs and limousines that trawl the trendy streets of the Meatpacking District, a commission spokesman said.
"The Meatpacking District is a major hub for illegal gypsy cabs," TLC Commissioner David Yassky said in a statement.
"Our enforcement officers are there regularly, and we partner with the NYPD as often as possible. I strongly urge people to only flag down yellow taxis – that way you know the car has been inspected for safety and the driver is legitimate and insured."
The commission has been clamping down for six months and has issued 1,135 summonses for illegal hails, and 889 summonses to drivers of unlicensed cars.
The fine for taking a street hail is $350 for the first offense and $500 for the second. Drivers of black cars can have their licenses revoked after a third offense.
For driving a car unlicensed by the TLC, the fines range from $400 to $1,000, and a 60-day jail sentence.
The commission planned to hold another raid early in February, a spokesman said.
