Article: Connex's little book reveals all about fare evaders

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From the Herald Sun click here!

Connex's little book reveals all about fare evaders

Connex's little book reveals all about fare evaders

    * Ashley Gardiner
    * From: Herald Sun
    * September 16, 2009 12:00AM

THE secrets of Connex ticket inspectors have been revealed by an official report book handed to the Herald Sun.

The red-faced rail operator launched an investigation into how the incident happened.

The book contains private details of commuters accused of offences such as fare evasion.

It was sent anonymously to the Herald Sun, with a note saying: "Found this down on the tip."

It contained completed "reports of non-compliance", which are forwarded to the Department of Transport, which then issues fines.

The book contains names and addresses of 45 people accused of offences in two weeks last year. Most were travelling on concession tickets without concession cards. They said they had forgotten them.

Travelling without tickets was the second main offence. Excuses included rushing for trains, not having change or any money.

Five people were caught with their feet on seats, including a Richmond woman, 28, who said she had been drinking and a Dandenong woman, 19, who complained of a sore leg.

A Sunshine woman, 47, became abusive after being found with no concession card. When an inspector asked why, she replied: "F--- off, you f---ing idiot." She was fined for offensive language and for having no concession card.

The fine for no ticket, concession card or having feet on seats is $172. Offensive language is $229.

Reports were scrapped for a homeless offender and a woman who had a sick child with her.

The Herald Sun returned the book to Connex. Spokesman John Rees said its disappearance would be investigated.

"We don't talk about our internal security procedures as this would weaken them," he said.

"However, we can say our record-keeping is normally extremely well controlled and this is the first time, to our knowledge, that such an incident has occurred."