A man, Charles Brohiri, has been delayed in his sentencing for repeated fare evasion on the railway system after a judge raised concerns about the legal process involved in his case. Brohiri has been cited for fare evasion 113 times by ticket inspectors from Govia Thameslink, accumulating over £30,000 in penalty fares. He remains on bail despite committing 30 additional offences since his last court date in May, including receiving a penalty fare just two days prior to this latest hearing.
District Judge John Zani has postponed Brohiri’s sentencing until December, seeking clarification on whether a lay prosecutor was involved legally in his case. Lay prosecutors, who lack legal qualifications, have historically been used by rail companies to present fare evasion cases in magistrates’ courts. Recently, the Department for Transport informed rail companies that it is illegal for non-lawyers to act as prosecutors in these scenarios.
In a letter earlier this summer, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander advised train operators against using lay prosecutors until they could confirm the legality of such actions. This development has prompted scrutiny regarding how train operating companies pursue fare evaders and handle situations involving passengers who may have made genuine mistakes.
The implications of the use of lay prosecutors by Govia Thameslink are now affecting Brohiri’s case. The judge emphasized the need for a review of whether the proceedings were initiated correctly and if there are any significant consequences from using a lay prosecutor. A Govia Thameslink spokesperson stated that they would not comment on ongoing legal matters.
Judge Zani has instructed Brohiri not to access any train services operated by Govia Thameslink and has requested him to treat the proceedings seriously. A follow-up court appearance is scheduled for December 16.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cwy38zmvk04o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss