Spitalfields man caused rush hour misery by napping next to DLR line

A trespasser who fell asleep by a railway line causing huge delays for commuters and thousands of pounds in lost fares has been handed a suspended prison sentence.

Gary Brisco, of Code Street, Spitalfields, held up Docklands Light Railway trains for 45 minutes by walking along the track and taking a nap by the line.

The 42-year-old’s ramble caused misery for commuters as police searched for him near West India Quay station at around 8.50am on May 17. The delays cost DLR operator Serco £26,500 in penalty charges.

Investigating officer PC Daniel Bromley said: “Gary Brisco’s reckless actions caused delays to thousands of passengers and resulted in Serco receiving a penalty performance deduction.

“Trespassing on the railway is incredibly dangerous and people risk serious injury and death through electrocution when they go onto the track.”

Brisco was handed a six month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months, and a 12 month supervision order at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Friday. He had previously pleaded guilty to obstructing the railway.