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A man known for frequently evading train fares has had his sentencing postponed due to concerns raised by a judge regarding the legal process. Charles Brohiri, who owes more than £30,000 in penalty fares, was caught 113 times by Govia Thameslink ticket inspectors, as revealed in Westminster Magistrates court.
Despite committing an additional 30 offences since his last court appearance in May, Brohiri was granted bail, with his most recent penalty fare issued just two days prior to the hearing. The sentencing has been adjourned until December after the judge expressed doubts about the case against him, particularly questioning whether it began with a lay prosecutor.
Rail companies have employed lay prosecutors, who are not legally qualified, to handle fare evasion cases in magistrates courts. However, the Department for Transport recently warned rail firms that allowing non-lawyers to act as prosecutors is considered a criminal offence. This has sparked a review of how train operating companies pursue fare evaders and prosecute passengers who have made honest mistakes.
The judge, Judge John Zane, has instructed Brohiri not to access or attempt to board any train operated by Govia Thameslink. A new hearing is scheduled for December to allow Brohiri to obtain legal representation. Govia Thameslink (GTR) declined to comment on the ongoing legal proceedings, stating that the matter is currently before the court and it would be inappropriate to comment
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