Thameslink train driver took upskirt photos of woman

Paolo Barone, 51, took the photos while he was travelling home from his shift on September 15, 2022. 

He boarded a train from Blackfriars to St Albans in his work uniform then repeatedly took photos of the sleeping woman throughout his 45 minute journey. 

Then as he got off the train at St Albans he took more photos while positioning his phone so it was directed up her skirt. 

Thameslink identified Barone to British Transport Police (BTP) and he was arrested at his home on Brackley Road in High Wycombe. 

Barone was found guilty of voyeurism and sentenced to three months in prison suspended for 12 months. 

 He must also complete a 55 hour Rehabilitation Activity Requirement and sign the sex offenders register for seven years. 

Paolo Barone (Image: BTP)Investigating officer DC Daryl Keogh said: “Wearing his work uniform meant Barone was in a position of trust when he committed this vile and disgusting violation. 

“Seeing the woman was sleeping and vulnerable he took the opportunity, not to watch out for her, but to commit this hideous act. 

“The woman was horrified when she learned what had happened as she slept. 

"We will stop at nothing to deter, pursue, arrest and bring sex offenders on the railway network to justice. 

“Every report is important. See it or experience it, you can report anything that makes you uncomfortable. 

"We urge everyone to save 61016 to their phones and download the Railway Guardian app before you travel so you can discreetly get in touch with us if you need us.” 

Jean Cockerill, People Director for Govia Thameslink Railway, said: “We were shocked and appalled to learn about this incident. 

“As soon as we were made aware we followed our internal procedures, which included suspending the individual as soon as he was identified.  

“We hold our colleagues to the highest standards of conduct and this type of behaviour will never be tolerated. 

“We thank the person for their courage in coming forward and reporting this crime, and we encourage anyone who experiences or witnesses this type of behaviour on the railway to report it to the British Transport Police.”