A Leeds United supporter has been sentenced to a three-year football ban following a tragic chanting incident at a football match.
Harry Keyes, 22, of Huddersfield Road in Mirfield, was arrested on August 6 this year at the Elland Road football stadium during a match against Cardiff City after police evidence showed him making aeroplane gestures, which were thought to be a reference to the death of Cardiff player Emiliano Sala in a plane crash in 2019.
West Yorkshire Police later charged him with a Section 5 public order offence in connection with the incident.
Keyes pleaded guilty and was sentenced at Leeds Crown Court on Friday (December 8), receiving a £107 fine, £85 in prosecution costs, and a £43 victim surcharge, as well as a three-year football ban approved by the court.
“Directing chants, comments, or gestures that refer to tragic incidents at rival fans is highly offensive and can cause genuine distress to those affected by those incidents,” said Chief Inspector Pete Hall, who led the policing operation at the match.
“It has no place in football, and fans attending games should have no doubt about how seriously the authorities and clubs will take any such incidents.”
“We know that the majority of fans do not want to see this type of behavior and demand that those who engage in it face serious consequences.”
“We will be continuing to work closely with Leeds United and visiting clubs to investigate any offences and respond appropriately, including seeking football banning orders against those involved.”
