Millwall Fans Banned After Sick Helicopter Crash Taunt at Leicester
Two Millwall supporters have landed themselves with Football Banning Orders after making vile gestures referencing a tragic helicopter crash during a match against Leicester City.
Father and Son’s Shocking Helicopter Salute
In January at The Den, Peter and Freddie Brooks, a father and son duo, were caught on camera making helicopter gestures aimed at Leicester fans. The offensive act mocked the 2018 helicopter crash that claimed the life of Leicester’s owner, Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, and four others.
With the evidence stacked against them, both men pleaded guilty. As punishment, they each received three-year Football Banning Orders, barring them from attending matches.
Police Crack Down on ‘Tragedy Chanting’
DC Phil Dickinson from the Football Investigations Team slammed the behaviour, saying:
“These convictions demonstrate the zero tolerance approach we are taking to those who partake in so-called ‘tragedy chanting’. While such incidents might previously have been viewed as simply being in poor taste, they are now rightly being recognised for what they are – vile offences which cause upset and outrage.”
The swift arrests followed a joint effort between Metropolitan Police and Leicestershire Police, triggered by footage flagged by Leicester supporters themselves.
Court Sentence Details
- Freddie Brooks, 18: 12-month conditional discharge, three-year Football Banning Order, £85 costs, £26 victim surcharge.
- Peter Brooks, 48: £266 fine, three-year Football Banning Order, £85 costs, £106 victim surcharge.
The Bromley Magistrates’ Court handed down the penalties on 21 February, sending a clear message to football fans: offensive behaviour at matches won’t be tolerated.
These convictions underline the authorities’ commitment to stamping out abuse and protecting the spirit of the game.