A ban from attending professional football matches for a duration of three years was imposed on Paul Yendle, a spectator, following an altercation at Plymouth related to a game involving the Argyle team. The Truro Magistrates’ Court issued the ban on July 11 after Yendle pleaded guilty to committing affray, as reported by CornwallLive. The incident took place on February 11, 2023, at Plymouth Railway station, where Yendle allegedly used or threatened unlawful violence towards others, causing fear for their personal safety. This occurred on the same day Plymouth Argyle played a League One game at Home Park against Portsmouth, resulting in a 3-1 victory for the team.
Residing in Fuller Road in Perranporth, Yendle was handed a community order and 15 days of rehabilitation activity. The court also imposed a fine of £800 and a three-year football banning order.
Football banning orders are enforced by the courts in response to football-related offences, such as disorderly behavior, possession of alcohol, violence towards others or property, offensive chanting, pitch invasion, and other breaches. The terms of a ban can limit individuals from attending matches in specific areas and may involve surrendering a passport during international tournaments. Ban durations can vary from three to 10 years and may include reporting at a local police station in certain circumstances.
As per a spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police, there are presently 53 active ban records for fans of Plymouth, Exeter, and Torquay. These individuals may be obligated to surrender their passports during major international tournaments, such as the upcoming Euro 2024.
In order to enforce the bans, football clubs in the region collaborate with the police, and special operations are carried out during home and away games. This coordinated effort aims to prevent banned individuals from accessing football grounds and traveling to away fixtures, thereby promoting security within the community.
Devon and Cornwall Police also advocate for football enthusiasts to join their WhatsApp community for news updates and breaking stories. By joining, members will receive immediate updates directly on their mobile devices, in addition to access to exclusive offers and promotions. Interested individuals can join the community by clicking on a provided link and selecting ‘Join Community’, with the option to exit the group at any time.
In conclusion, individuals who engage in misconduct at football events may face severe consequences, including lengthy bans and legal repercussions. The cooperation between football clubs and law enforcement is essential in ensuring safety and security during matches and encouraging responsible fan conduct.