A MAN from Purfleet has been fined £1,000 for walking across the railway line at Purfleet station.
Steven Payne, aged 49 and of Joslin Road, Purfleet, walked from the level crossing to the platform, trespassing on the railway to do so and risking his life.
Police officers patrolling at Purfleet station on 3 April, saw Payne trespass on the tracks. His details were taken and was later reported for the offence.
On 19 July at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court, Payne was found guilty of one count of railway trespass. He was ordered to pay a £1,000 fine, as well as costs of £300 and a victim surcharge of £100.
The prosecution comes as Network Rail with the British Transport Police and rail industry launched a new campaign called ‘You Vs Train’. The campaign highlights the serious and devastating consequences when people make the potentially life-changing decision to ignore warnings and go onto the railway, with its obvious and hidden dangers.
Inspector Steve Webster from BTP, said: “By walking across the tracks, Payne but his life in serious danger. He gave no regard to his own safety and I welcome the fine he has been handed. I hope he doesn’t repeat his actions otherwise he could face more devastating consequences.”
Richard Tew, Network Rail’s head of safety for Anglia, said: “This man showed blatant disregard for his safety at this crossing. He might have escaped with his life, but he has now been handed the maximum fine. This just goes to show that walking across the tracks is just not worth it, for a short-cut or any other reason.”
