A university law student has been fined £12,000 after being caught in an elaborate fare-dodging scheme on a South Western Railway service. The incident, captured on camera for the Channel 5 programme 'Fare Dodgers: At War With The Law', occurred at Clapham Junction Station in south London.
The student, whose identity was kept confidential, was approached by revenue protection officer Sam Veitch. He had attempted to buy an e-ticket in front of the officer, claiming he had forgotten to tap in. However, Mr Veitch noticed the ticket was purchased at 16:13, just one minute before the interaction, and pointed out that trains do not reach Clapham that quickly.
The student, wearing a black coat, Adidas tracksuit bottoms and Air Jordan trainers, initially refused to provide identification and attempted to walk away. He later admitted that the address he gave was his parents' home, and expressed fear of getting a criminal record, saying: 'I study law at uni. Are you reporting me?'
Despite his pleas, the case was referred to prosecutors. However, it was later closed after no prior wrongdoing was found, and he paid a fine. The incident highlights the ongoing issue of fare evasion, which costs Transport for London an estimated £190 million each year.
The programme airs next on Monday at 9pm on Channel 5.
