Fifteen fans given bans over matchday violence
HOME AND AWAY SUPPORTERS
FIFTEEN football fans have been banned from attending matches for a total of 70 years for their roles in violent confrontations with visiting supporters last season.
An investigation into disorder before Leicester City’s Europa League group game at home to Napoli in September last year identified a number of offenders.
Police officers had to go into the crowd at the full-time whistle at the King Power Stadium after home and away supporters clashed.
Missiles were thrown between the two sets of fans and violence broke out in the corner where the away end meets the north family stand.
Earlier in the day, a number of people were arrested after Napoli and City fans clashed on the outskirts of the city centre.
Police said clashes, during which those taking part removed their belts to use as weapons, took place in the Millstone Lane area.
While 17 fans were initially charged with various offences by Leicestershire Police, 15 were convicted.
One man was given a suspended custodial sentence, while others were ordered to do unpaid work and pay fines.
Twelve fans were given five-year football banning orders, one fan was banned for four years and two were given three-year bans.
The force is set to claim back £16,500 from the United Kingdom Football Policing Unit as a result of the charges.
The money will be reinvested back into preventing and tackling crime, said a spokesman for the force.
Chief Inspector Dan Pedley, who was match commander for the game against Napoli, said: “All those who have received banning orders were found to have been involved in disorder prior to kickoff.
“We have a robust policing operation in force for each game, but unfortunately, there are occasionally pockets of supporters who are out to cause trouble.
“I’m pleased that following a thorough investigation, those involved are facing the consequences of their actions.”
Pc Dave Stevens, the force’s dedicated football officer, said: “Those who have been given banning orders are known risk supporters, so the fact they’re now excluded from causing further harm for the next few years is extremely beneficial to our football operations.”