Crewe thank Cheshire Police after four fans receive prison sentences
Following a lengthy investigation by Cheshire Police and Crewe Alexandra, the Football Club can confirm that three of our supporters have been handed prison sentences and a further supporter has been handed a suspended prison sentence following their involvement in the violence that marred our FA Cup tie against Eastleigh in November 2015.
Violence flared shortly after the final whistle and one of the club’s stewards was assaulted. Fighting also broke out between rival groups on Gresty Road following the conclusion of the game.
Crewe Alexandra co-operated fully with the Police investigation and provided all available CCTV footage of the incident. Officers from the Football Unit were able to identify those involved and charges of violent disorder were bought forward.
All pleaded guilty to the charges of violent disorder and were sentenced at Chester Crown Court. Three were sentenced to six months imprisonment and were handed banning orders for a period of six years.
A further defendant was sentenced to six months imprisonment, which was suspended for a period of 12 months. He will also carry out 150 hours unpaid work. Two more were also handed 12 month community orders and carry out 120 hours unpaid work. They have also received football banning order; which are to last for four years.
This follows on from four youths who had previously appeared before South Cheshire Youth Court in May where they received 6-month referral orders and received banning orders lasting for a period of 4 years.
Superintendent Luke McDonnell from Cheshire Police said: “This was one of the worst football related incidents of violence that we have experienced in Cheshire for many years.
“This was reflected in the Crown’s Prosecution Service’s decision to charge those responsible with offences of violent disorder and the subsequent sentences handed to the offenders by the Court.
“The behaviour displayed by these makes will not be tolerated at games within Cheshire and we will continue to robustly use the legislation of our disposal to sure that decent law-abiding fans can continue to enjoy football in a safe and secure environment.”
Cliff Simpson, the club’s Safety Officer said: “We are pleased with the outcome and we would like to thank Cheshire Police for all their hard work in seeing these positive convictions through.
“Crewe Alexandra prides itself on being a family oriented Football Club and this type of behaviour from a very small minority of supporters will not be tolerated. The club will always strive to protect our supporters and staff. We will do everything in our power to make sure that a mindless minority will not spoil our match day experience for others.
“We hope this outcome will serve as a deterrent for any of our supporters thinking about getting involved in violence or anti-social behaviour both inside and outside of the Alexandra Stadium.”