Officers from Staffordshire Police have released CCTV images of several men they wish to speak to about incidents of disorder involving football fans in Burton-upon-Trent.
On Saturday 9 February, Burton Albion played Rotherham in a league fixture at the Pirelli Stadium. Prior to, during, and after the game there were a number of incidents involving a small number of Rotherham fans.
The first incident happened at around 12.55pm in the Lord Burton pub in High Street between Rotherham and Leeds fans who had stopped off in Burton on route to their team’s match against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
This incident of public order was attended by officers and both groups were dispersed.
During the Burton v Rotherham game a smoke bomb and flare were set off in the away terrace by Rotherham supporters and a number of fans were ejected. Towards the end of the game objects, including plastic bottles and coins, were thrown at officials and police officers.
The final incident happened after the game when a small group of Rotherham supporters went into Rileys Pool and Snooker Club in High Street just before 6pm and were involved in an incident of disorder. Police attended and the group were dispersed. It is not believed anyone was injured.
Officers investigating these incidents have examined CCTV and, working together with colleagues from South Yorkshire Police and Burton Albion Football Club, have established the identity of a number of those individuals involved.
Chief Inspector Dave Bird, the force’s lead on football planning, said: “We have worked alongside Burton Albion for a number of years to ensure that the Pirelli Stadium is a safe place to attend for all. When disorder does occur and we can identify those involved we will deal with them robustly and seek to prosecute them.
“This match was attended by around 1,900 Rotherham fans and those involved in these incidents account for only a small minority. The vast majority watched the match, along with home supporters, and remained in good spirits causing no problems whatsoever.
“As part of our post match investigation we are releasing CCTV images of several men who we want to speak to about their involvement in the incidents that day. Inquiries are continuing and further images may be released to progress the investigation at a later date.
“I would urge anyone who recognises any of those involved to contact us immediately.”
Those involved in disorder at football matches and/or on match days, may face court and could potentially be banned from attending future fixtures.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Football Liaison Officer Gary Lote at Burton on 01283 238259. Alternatively, they can contact independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
For more information see http://www.staffordshire.police.uk/news/latest_appeals/130326_fp_cctv_appeal_football/
For more information see http://www.staffordshire.police.uk/news/latest_appeals/130326_fp_cctv_appeal_football/