March 10, 2017 9.14 am This story is over 85 months old

Hooligan jailed and banned from football matches for six years after assaulting police officer

A hooligan involved in violent clashes following Grimsby Town’s pre-season friendly with Sheffield United in July has been jailed and banned from football matches for six years. Derem Smith, 28, of Bridby Street, Sheffield was arrested after the game on July 23, which saw fighting break out outside the ground and across Cleethorpes. Smith appeared…
Derem Smith has been banned from football matches for six years

A hooligan involved in violent clashes following Grimsby Town’s pre-season friendly with Sheffield United in July has been jailed and banned from football matches for six years.

Derem Smith, 28, of Bridby Street, Sheffield was arrested after the game on July 23, which saw fighting break out outside the ground and across Cleethorpes.

Smith appeared at Grimsby Magistrates’ Court on March 7 and was sentenced after being found guilty of assaulting a police officer at court last month.

He was sentenced to 56 days in jail, made to pay £100 compensation and given a six year football banning order.

The video below shows the clashes between fans after the game. Viewers should be aware of strong language throughout.

It comes after 29 men were charged with violent disorder in connection with disturbances following the match, with football banning orders being sought against all those convicted.

Superintendent Dave Hall said: “It is completely unacceptable that our officer was assaulted in this incident while on duty protecting and serving the community.

“We are committed to ensuring offenders are identified, charged and brought to justice, and I am pleased he has been imprisoned for his actions.

“The court has clearly judged Derem Smith’s behaviour post-match as wholly unacceptable after it resulted in a six year football banning order and has prevented him from attending matches across the country and causing any further disruption.

“The vast majority of those attending sporting events including this match are genuine fans and I am sure they will also be pleased action has been taken to clamp down on disorder.

“I would like to reiterate that there is no place for this kind of violence and disorder around what should be an enjoyable, family friendly activity, supporting your local team.

“Our message is clear – behaviour of this kind will not be tolerated and we will take action to tackle anyone responsible.”