Charges Dropped for Man of Good Character in Alleged Football Public Order Offence

Our client was charged alongside 10 others with Section 4 of the Public Order Act 1986: threatening behaviour with intent to cause people to believe that immediate unlawful violence would be used against them.

The allegation took place at a football stadium, where our client attended with his friend and sat in the opposing teams end. A fan discovered that our client was an opposing fan, which caused a large altercation. This was captured on CCTV.

We wrote representations to the CPS requesting that the charge be discontinued on the grounds that our client was acting in self-defence.

On the day of trial, our instructed barrister spoke to the prosecutor about our representations and whether a review of the case had taken place.

The prosecutor confirmed that the CPS would offer no evidence against out client but would be proceeding with the co-defendants.

A formal not guilty verdict was entered. Our client has maintained his good character.

Daniel Cavaglieri and Ellie Godwin acted in this case. Doughty Street Chambers were the barristers instructed.