c2c operates a relatively compact network of 26 stations across East London and South Essex, with its main services connecting London Fenchurch Street with the Essex town of Shoeburyness. Some services also operate to and from London Liverpool Street via Stratford.
Despite its smaller network, c2c takes an active approach to fare evasion and revenue protection. Unlike most operators, c2c has ticket gates at all of its stations, while Revenue Protection officers carry out inspections on trains and at stations, both in uniform and undercover. c2c also uses ticketing and passenger information to identify suspicious patterns and investigate potential historic fare evasion.
If you’re caught travelling without a valid ticket, you may be subject to a Penalty Fare of £100 plus the price of a full single ticket for the journey in question. This is reduced to £50 plus the single fare if paid within 21 days, with any appeals also needing to be filed within this period through an independent appeals service.
However, not every case ends with a Penalty Fare. Revenue Protection officers may caution, question, and report suspected offenders in accordance with the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984.
If your case reaches c2c’s prosecutions department, potential outcomes include:
- No further action.
- Out-of-court settlement involving financial compensation.
- Prosecution in the Magistrates’ Court.
- Referral to the British Transport Police.
Persistent fare evasion can be particularly serious, with c2c stating that its technology can identify patterns in ticketing and passenger data and that repeat offenders may be prosecuted for historic instances of fare evasion as well as on the journey they were caught.
If you’re dealing with a fare evasion case via c2c – particularly one involving repeat offences – seeking expert legal advice early can be the difference between an amicable resolution and a potentially damaging court case.
At Manak Solicitors, we can assess the circumstances of your case, communicate with c2c on your behalf, and work towards an out-of-court resolution where possible, while ensuring you are fully prepared for all eventualities should a prosecution be pursued.