Charges against Saints fan accused of being in ‘near riot’ dropped

Criminal charges against a St Johnstone fan accused of being involved in a “near riot” at Mcdiarmid Park have been dropped.

Charlie Johnstone, 22, was due to stand trial at Perth Sheriff Court this week in connection with disorder on the night of Saints’ Scottish Cup win in May last year.

However, the case was formally “not called” on the day of the trial, meaning the matter has been officially shelved.

A Crown Office spokesman said: “Following full and careful consideration of the facts and circumstances of the case, including the available admissible evidence, the procurator fiscal decided that there should be no further criminal proceedings at this time.

“The Crown reserves the right to proceed in the future should further evidence become available.”

Johnstone, of Nimmo Avenue, Perth, had denied allegations he behaved in a threatening or abusive manner, as part of a disorderly crowd.

He was last year banned from attending St Johnstone games, home or away, as part of bail conditions.

Five fans have been convicted in connection with the same incident while charges against another were deemed not proven.