Football Hooligans Slammed with Tough Bans and Jail Time
Six football troublemakers have been slapped with hefty bans and prison sentences following a spate of violent incidents at matches across Avon and Somerset. Authorities are cracking down hard to keep the beautiful game safe for decent fans.
Bristol Rovers vs Swindon Town Chaos
- A 27-year-old man got 10 weeks behind bars for violent pre-match disorder on Gloucester Road.
- William Dinham-Mead admitted kicking a Swindon fan while they were down. He received a six-year football ban.
- Another 17-year-old from Kingswood pleaded guilty to a public order offence. He was handed a five-year football ban plus a 12-month community order with 220 hours of unpaid work.
Derby Dad’s Pitch Invasion Lands Him a Ban
In December last year, a 24-year-old from Derby dashed down the pitch at Ashton Gate to rile up home fans. He copped a three-year stadium ban and a £439 fine after admitting the offence last month.
Pyrotechnic Trouble and Knight Templar Madness
- Spencer Pettifor, 31, caught trying to light a smoke device at Bristol City’s game against Middlesbrough in February, received a three-year football ban plus 80 hours of community service and fines totalling £180.
- At Bristol Rovers vs Forest Green Rovers in April, two men dressed as knights templars caused havoc. James Mallett, 36, got 10 weeks in prison and a ten-year football ban after lunging at police. Daniel Athey, 39, received an 18-month community order, three-year ban, and must complete 220 hours of community service.
Strong Words from the Police
“Threatening behaviour and actions that could potentially endanger public safety will not be tolerated,” warned Inspector Mark Nicholson. “Thousands of football fans enjoy games every season without incident. These bans send a clear message to a handful of irresponsible individuals. We’ll keep working with clubs to make match days safe and enjoyable for all.”
All offenders are prohibited from attending any UK matches for the length of their bans. They cannot enter specified areas near stadiums on match days and must hand over passports before England internationals abroad.
