Hack Inspectors from the DC Taxicab Commission recently were recently highlighted in media reports for their efforts to prevent illegal taxicab operations.  

A “sting” operation was conducted after several complaints were received about Capital Flyer Transport & Taxi. After a Hack Inspector acting as a passenger placed a call for pickup and was delivered to a specified location, the driver charged an exorbitant fare and was subsequently detained by other Hack Inspectors who were deployed waiting for the violator. The news story makes it clear that passengers must be aware not to support illegal taxi operations and make sure to look for a meter and dome light, the Face Identification of the driver visibly displayed on the passenger side sun visor and the “H” license plate.
Full story below:

http://www.nbcwashington.com/video/#!/news/local/Rogue-Taxis-A-Persistent-Problem--Cab-Commission/191184411

In a separate case, when Hack Inspectors identified an illegal taxi with a passenger on board, the driver attempted to elude them. A brief pursuit occurred ending with the driver hitting another vehicle and being arrested by Metropolitan Police summoned to the scene. Full story below:

http://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/Taxi-Driver-With-Passenger-Leads-Police-on-Chase-191134391.html