Eight teenagers charged after alleged disorder at match – and police …
The Wheatsheaf pub, Monkwearmouth, Sunderland, where the alleged disorder took place after the match. Picture: Google Maps (Image: Google Maps)
Eight teenagers have been charged following an alleged disorder earlier this year – and police are now issuing a warning ahead of football season.
On Saturday, March 18, officers from Northumbria Police were alerted to reports of violence between a group of males following Sunderland AFC’s home game against Luton Town[1].
Following the conclusion of the game at the Stadium of Light, a group of males were reported to have engaged in disorder outside The Wheatsheaf pub, on Roker Avenue.
Police immediately launched an investigation into the incident and quickly identified a handful of suspects, leading them to later arrest eight males aged between 15 and 17 in connection with the reports.
The Northern Echo: The alleged disorder happened after Sunderland AFC’s home game against Luton Town back in March. Picture: Google Maps
The alleged disorder happened after Sunderland AFC’s home game against Luton Town back in March. Picture: Google Maps (Image: Google Maps)
They were bailed with conditions which included not entering an exclusion zone around the Stadium of Light for an initial three-month period.
Officers have now announced they have since charged those arrested with affray.
The eight males, who cannot be named for legal reasons, are scheduled to appear at a youth hearing in South Tyneside later this month.
Chief Inspector Neil Hall, of Northumbria Police, said: “First and foremost, I would like to stress that violence has absolutely no place in our communities and football rivalries are never an excuse to engage in such activity.
“After we were alerted to reports of alleged disorder after the game on March 18, officers swiftly launched an investigation aimed at identifying those responsible.
“Thanks to continued support from the public and both of the clubs involved – as well as commitment from officers tirelessly investigating the reports – we have been able to charge eight males who will appear before the courts in due course.
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“As a Force, we are committed to dealing with anyone intent on causing disorder in the region – there is simply no place for this type of behaviour in our communities, and especially not related to sporting events where supporters deserve to feel safe.
“I would like to reassure the public that our work is far from over – and my message to anyone setting out to cause disruption ahead of the new season is clear.
“Anyone found to be involved in disorder can expect to be dealt with robustly by police and partners – please know that we are watching you closely and will do everything in our power to stamp out this irresponsible behaviour.
For more Tyne & Wear stories staright to your email basket, click here[4].
“Anyone found to be involved in disorder could potentially face criminal proceedings and a banning order, which not only prevent you from watching regulated football matches in the UK for a fixed period, but can also affect your future career prospects as they may be disclosed to potential employers through a vetting process or DBS check.”
A proactive policing operation from Northumbria Police will be in place as the new football season begins to ensure the safety of those in attendance at upcoming matches and address any pockets of disorder.
References
- ^ Luton Town (sports.yahoo.com)
- ^ Judge reduces County Durham burglar’s prison sentence by 12 months (www.thenorthernecho.co.uk)
- ^ Traders in Durham unite in call for urgent order to curb anti-social behaviour (www.thenorthernecho.co.uk)
- ^ here (www.thenorthernecho.co.uk)