Introduction to the Scandal
For some hopeful drivers, passing the road test takes hours of studying and practice, even outside of driving school. Some need to take the test multiple times to ultimately pass and earn their driver’s license.
The Allegations
But some current New York City drivers never shared those concerns. That’s because the district attorney on Staten Island claims there could be hundreds – maybe even thousands – of drivers out there who received their driver’s licenses without ever taking a road test.
Operation Road Test
The district attorney and New York State Inspector General’s Office revealed Tuesday what was called Operation Road Test, an investigation into a Queens driving school that allegedly conspired with three Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) employees who administered the road tests on Staten Island.
"Too many people have gotten drivers’ licenses because of corruption, because of theft," said Richmond County DA Michael McMahon. "Countless individuals are driving on our roads without demonstrating the skills necessary to do it safely."
The Scheme
The scheme would give any driver who earned their license a case of road rage. Prosecutors alleged that anyone who needed a driver’s license would pay the T&E Driving School, in Flushing, up to $2,000. The driving school and the DMV employees involved would then conspire to schedule road tests with a man and woman imposter.
Imposters and Corruption
The imposters would take the road test on behalf of customers, according to prosecutors, who claimed the three DMV employees were paid off in cash.
"T&E used social media and strategic advertising to exploit members of the Chinese community and get licenses regardless of immigration status, language and ability to operate a vehicle," said George Ioannidis, of Homeland Security Investigations.
Charges and Aftermath
All three DMV employees, as well as four people associated with the driving school, face charges that include falsifying business records, tampering with public records and identity theft. The DMV has since suspended the employees involved.
Meanwhile, investigators are working with the DMV to track down hundreds of drivers who are behind the wheel without ever being properly tested. The DA said there could be many, many out there.
"We think this is just the tip of the iceberg, to put it simply," said McMahon.
Conclusion
The scandal highlights the need for increased oversight and accountability within the DMV and driving schools. The fact that hundreds or thousands of drivers may be on the road without proper testing is a concern for public safety. As the investigation continues, it is likely that more individuals will be charged and held accountable for their role in the scheme.
FAQs
Q: What is Operation Road Test?
A: Operation Road Test is an investigation into a Queens driving school that allegedly conspired with DMV employees to issue driver’s licenses without proper testing.
Q: How many drivers may be affected?
A: The DA estimates that hundreds or thousands of drivers may be on the road without proper testing.
Q: What charges do the DMV employees and driving school associates face?
A: They face charges including falsifying business records, tampering with public records, and identity theft.
Q: What is being done to address the issue?
A: Investigators are working with the DMV to track down drivers who may not have been properly tested, and the DMV has suspended the employees involved.
