A TAXI passenger from Carlisle who made off without paying the fare was known to the driver because they had previously been in relationship.

Lisa Nugent, 33, was also likely to be caught because she had booked the taxi in her own name and then asked to go  to her home address, Carlisle’s Rickergate court heard.

She admitted making off without payment on April 2. She also pleaded guilty to a second charge of being drunk and disorderly on April 19.

The court that Nugent, of Harris Crescent, Harraby, Carlisle, first got into trouble when she walked away from the taxi that had transported her without paying the £7 fare she had incurred.

The second offence related to her behaviour in Stephenson Road, Carlisle. Prosecutor Graeme Tindall police were called because the defendant had been in a “drunk and volatile state.”

Andrew Gurney, defending, described Nugent as a “vulnerable adult,” who was dealing with a number of mental health disorders, including bipolar and split personality disorder.

“She uses substances to deal with her difficulties,” said the lawyer.

“She had enjoyed a long period of stability from drugs. It’s unfortunate that there has been this blip. She accepts that she was excessively drunk and apologises for her behaviour.

“The taxi driver was known to her; they had previously been in a romantic relationship. The fare involved was for a low amount.”

The presiding magistrates said it was a shame that Nugent committed the two offences. The defendant was given a £40 fine for each offence, with £85 costs and an order to pay the taxi driver involved £7 compensation.

Thus the taxi journey ultimately cost the defendant £132.