Footie Fan Banned for 3 Years After Lashing Out at Police and Carrying Cocaine
Chaos erupted at Gillingham’s League Two clash with Newport County on October 28, 2023, when 18-year-old Jake Harling decided to stir trouble—just moments after another man had been arrested nearby.
Fan Smashes Cop’s Hat and Gets Confrontational
While Kent Police were dealing with an unrelated incident, Harling, from Blenheim Road, Sittingbourne, swaggered over and knocked an officer’s hat clean off. When the officer tried to question him, Harling refused to cooperate. Instead, he hurled abuse and acted aggressively.
Drunk, Threatening, and Found With Cocaine
After being cuffed, Harling didn’t calm down. He continued shouting swear words and threatened to harm the officer. Police also found a stash of cocaine on him—adding a serious drug charge to his growing list of offences.
Judge Slams Troublemaker: Football Ban and Community Orders
Facing Medway Magistrates on December 16, Harling admitted to a public order offence, being drunk at a sporting event, and possession of a Class A drug.
- Three-year Football Banning Order – no attending any regulated matches
- 12-month community order
- 60 hours unpaid work
- Mandatory rehabilitation course
- £114 victim surcharge and £85 court costs
Kent Police Deliver Warning to Football Foul-Players
“The behaviour exhibited by Jake Harling was completely unacceptable and has no place at any football ground,” said Superintendent Ray Quiller of Kent Police.
“He got involved in something that wasn’t his business and used filthy language in front of families and children, who were rightly shocked. We pride ourselves on good relations with Gillingham FC and other local clubs, and we stand firm against anyone ruining the game for others.”
“Football Banning Orders are a key tool to fight hooliganism. When offenders pose a threat, we won’t hesitate to take action.”
