Southeastern - Advice please

[6Gman]

I wasn’t asked on my journey to produce a valid ticket - there was no conductor on the train to buy a ticket.

I was let through the barrier at Ashford and then did what I did at St Pancras. Between Ashford and the officer seeing me at STP, I had not seen a southeastern employee.

Is it likely that I’ll receive a fine and a slap on the wrists?

You keep using the word "fine" and I'm not sure you understand its meaning. A fine can only be imposed by a court.

SE Trains may offer you an out of court settlement, which - to be honest - is the lightest option facing you.

If they choose to prosecute you in court then a fine would be almost certain.

Not sure what you mean by "a slap on the wrists". If you mean a ticking off but no financial implication then I think that's very unlikely.

 

[6Gman]

No no I went through the barrier. I was then stopped by the officer where I admitted what I had done.

So, are you saying you followed somebody (who had a valid ticket to operate the gate) and in effect squeezed through the barrier behind them?

 

[Wazza]

When I say fine I mean me having to pay SE trains a sum of money to bring the matter to a close. Either out or in court.

I accept I will have to pay money for what I did. I was wrong and I deserve to pay a fine, an out of court settlement or whatever you want to call it.

I will post in here when I get the letter for further advice on how to respond.

 

[MotCO]

Advice often given on this forum is to write down everything you did on this journey whilst it is still fresh in your memory. If you are asked in a month's time or so for your side of the story, you may overlook some of the details because you have simply forgotten them. Writing them down now also gives you the chance to add to them or update them as you remember other points. The questions asked by other posters will help you frame your jottings.

 

[farleigh]

Leave it out Island- the guy is asking for advice, not loads of judgemental questions. I have nothing to offer in terms of advice, but hope that the OP is reassured that they won't go to jail and will hopefully avoid a conviction.

Island - your post seems to be just putting the boot in. If - like me - you have nothing practical to offer, then leave it to people who have the required knowledge to help the guy.

Fingers crossed for you Wazza - you sound like a good person.