Huddersfield Man Slapped with Three-Year Football Ban After Anfield Abuse
A Huddersfield man has been handed a three-year Football Banning Order following a shocking incident at Anfield Stadium in April.
Racial Abuse Sparks Arrest at Liverpool vs Huddersfield Game
During the Liverpool vs Huddersfield Town match on Friday 26 April, 54-year-old John Brook from Imperial Road, Huddersfield, was caught hurling racial and religious abuse at a Liverpool player. Brook was swiftly detained, arrested, and charged with a racially and religiously aggravated public order offence.
Quick Justice at South Sefton Magistrates Court
Brook appeared before South Sefton Magistrates Court in Bootle on Friday 17 May. The court delivered a three-year Football Banning Order, banning him from all organised sporting events. Additionally, he was fined for his disgraceful conduct.
Police Tough on Hate Crime at Sporting Events
“This was a despicable incident in which Brook verbally abused a player. Harassment, including that which is racially or religiously aggravated, will not be tolerated by police,” said Match Commander Superintendent Paul White.
“We are doing all we can to root out such behaviour and ensure offenders face strong punishment. Spectators and participants shouldn’t have to tolerate hate crime – it often leaves families and young fans fearful.”
“We work closely with Liverpool FC and other football teams, and this outcome owes thanks to the vigilance of officers and stewards on duty.”
“Anyone caught engaging in this behaviour will be pursued relentlessly. We urge witnesses to report offences immediately to stewards or police, so we can take action.”
Call for Community Support to Stamp Out Football Hate Crime
The police urge anyone with information to speak to officers or stewards at the ground, call 101, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
