August M
A 32-year-old London commuter is set to stand trial after being accused of using a Transport for London escalator against its intended direction.
Michaela Copeland appeared at Bromley Magistrates’ Court where she was charged with breaching a TfL byelaw relating to escalator use.
Prosecutors allege she used or attempted to use an escalator “other than by standing or walking on it in the direction intended for travel”.
The incident took place at Greenwich station in South London on 27 November, according to The Sun.
Details about whether she walked up a descending escalator or down an ascending one have not been disclosed.
TfL rules in focus
The charge sits under a broad set of byelaws policing behaviour across London Underground, Overground and other TfL services.
These include bans on smoking, carrying lit items, spitting, and unauthorised gambling.
Escalator rules are explicitly worded. The byelaw states: “No person shall use any escalator on the railway except by standing or walking on it in the direction intended for travel.”
TfL officials say such rules are designed to keep stations running safely and efficiently, particularly during peak hours, notes The Sun.
Next steps
Copeland’s case returns to court in April, where magistrates will determine whether she breached the escalator regulations. If convicted, she could face a fine of up to £1,000, reports The Sun.
The matter has prompted wider public discussion about strict transport bylaws and the range of minor offences that can lead to prosecution on London’s rail network.
Sources: The Sun
