(C) Industrial Wales
Andrew Fisher, a 49-year-old former Network Rail signaller from Langdale Road, Bebington, Wirral, is at the center of two disturbing legal cases. Fisher, who worked at Mickle Trafford in Chester, has faced multiple allegations of endangering the safety of train passengers and engaging in inappropriate online interactions.
Train Passenger Safety Breach Charges
Fisher pleaded not guilty to eight charges of endangering railway passengers’ safety by allegedly recording himself performing a sex act at the signal box in Chester. The incidents reportedly took place on various days between May and September 2023, during which Fisher created 23 incriminating videos. He was arraigned at Liverpool Magistrates Court and chose trial by jury at Liverpool Crown Court, with a hearing set for February 24.
Online Incitement of a Minor
In a separate case, Fisher was found guilty of attempting to engage in sexual communication and incite a 13-year-old girl to non-penetrative sexual activity. Unbeknownst to him, the “girl” was an undercover police officer. His phone, seized by police, contained the same 23 videos of him masturbating at work. Despite facing trial for endangering passenger safety, the Crown Prosecution Service concluded that there was no realistic prospect of conviction, resulting in not guilty verdicts for these charges.
Details of the Online Chats
Fisher’s online interactions began in July 2023, continuing for about two months. Posing as a 13-year-old, the undercover officer received messages from Fisher asking for pictures of her in school uniform or pyjamas and suggesting they could “top and tail” in bed. Fisher also mentioned going “skinny dipping” at New Brighton and inquired about her bra size, describing her body inappropriately.
The officer ceased contact in September 2023, but Fisher persisted for three more days. Police tracked him via his IP address and arrested him at work in September 2023. Fisher claimed he did not believe he was communicating with a real child.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
Defending Fisher, Christopher McMaster highlighted Fisher’s struggle to reconcile his actions with his role as a father to two young children. Fisher’s life has dramatically changed, resulting in job loss, living with his parents, and restricted access to his children. Despite the gravity of his actions, McMaster argued that immediate imprisonment would severely impact Fisher’s family, particularly as he continues to financially support his wife, a teaching assistant.
Sentencing, Recorder Martine Snowdon issued a two-year suspended prison sentence, 100 hours of unpaid work, and 30 days of rehabilitation activities. Fisher was also ordered to sign the Sex Offenders Register for ten years and received a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for the same duration. Recorder Snowdon emphasized the gravity of his actions, stating, “I cannot tell you how close you have come to going to prison.”
