Brighton Woman Fined and Banned for Antisemitic Outburst at Football Match
Drunken Rant Leads to Religious Harassment Conviction
A woman from Brighton, known only as Hales, has been slammed with a fine and a football ban after hurling antisemitic abuse outside a professional match. Hales appeared in Brighton Magistrates’ Court on 13 May 2025, where she was found guilty of religiously aggravated harassment.
The court heard Hales was heavily intoxicated when she launched her tirade outside the stadium. Police tried to remove her, but she kept shouting abusive antisemitic slurs as officers took her details. She was slapped with a £120 fine, £650 in court costs, and a £96 victim surcharge.
Three-Year Football Banning Order Issued
As part of her sentence, Hales received a strict three-year Football Banning Order (FBO). This means she cannot attend any professional football matches, at home or abroad, during this period.
Police and Brighton & Hove Albion Crack Down
Sussex Police and Brighton & Hove Albion FC united in condemning Hales’ vile conduct.
PC Gregg Marshall, Sussex Police’s Dedicated Football Officer, said: “This was a shocking case and Hales’ antisemitic language has no place in football or society. We worked closely with Brighton & Hove Albion to ensure appropriate club action.”
Indefinite Club Ban for Hales
A spokesperson for Brighton & Hove Albion confirmed the club has imposed an indefinite ban on Hales from attending matches or club events.
“There is no place for such behaviour. In line with our zero-tolerance approach to xenophobia, Hales is subject to an indefinite ban. We thank Sussex Police for their professionalism in handling this unpleasant case.”
The club reaffirmed its commitment to a safe, inclusive environment for all fans, both inside the stadium and in the wider community.
