A former Network Rail team leader who described his job as 'the best in the world' has been sentenced after stealing thousands of pounds worth of tools and recruiting others to sell them online.
How the Theft Was Uncovered
Drew Beck, 32, of Briton Ferry, Neath, was caught when a colleague became suspicious about items going missing from their shared work van. The colleague discovered identical equipment being sold on eBay and Facebook Marketplace, prompting an investigation.
Prosecutor Joseph Hocquard told Swansea Crown Court that Beck shared a van with a coworker who noticed tools disappearing after Beck used it. In September 2024, the colleague visited an electrical wholesaler and found a package in Beck's name with an authorisation code meant only for supervisors.
The colleague then checked Cash Generators and online sales sites, finding equipment matching the missing items. When confronted, Beck went on sick leave instead of reporting himself to managers.
Network Rail Investigation and Arrest
Network Rail launched an investigation and discovered Beck had been ordering tools from the wholesaler using old authorisation codes without entering them into company stock. The total value of stolen items exceeded £11,000.
Police executed a search warrant at Beck's home in October, seizing invoices and empty packaging. His phone contained messages showing stolen items were sold on eBay and Facebook with the help of co-defendant Andrew Rutherford. Beck answered 'no comment' in his police interview.
A search of Rutherford's home uncovered tools identified as Network Rail property. Rutherford gave a prepared statement denying knowledge the tools were stolen.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
Beck pleaded guilty to theft by an employee, having no previous convictions. Rutherford, 45, of Skewen, Neath, pleaded guilty to handling stolen goods, with 14 prior convictions for 26 offences.
Defence barrister Ryan Bowen said Beck had worked for Network Rail for 10 years and described his behaviour as 'shameful'. He said Beck hid his criminality and drug use from his partner and children, and 'bitterly regrets' his actions. Beck had called his job 'the best job in the world with the best people'.
Sarah John, for Rutherford, said alcohol and drug addiction were at the root of his offending, but he was now addressing these issues. She stated others were involved in disposing of the stolen items and Rutherford was not responsible for the full £11,000. He expressed remorse, had started his own business, and 'hopes for a much brighter future'.
Judge Catherine Richards called the offending a 'fall from grace' for Beck, noting he involved others, including Rutherford, in selling the stolen goods.
Beck received an eight-month prison sentence suspended for 12 months, with a rehabilitation course and 150 hours of unpaid work. Rutherford was sentenced to four months suspended for 12 months, with a rehabilitation course and accredited programme.
