Police describe crowd disturbance report as “biased and misinformed”

Police have characterized a report investigating crowd disturbances that occurred after a Hartlepool United versus York City football match in January as “biased and misinformed.” The York City Supporters’ Trust (YCST) released its findings last week, which scrutinized the incidents of January 27 in Hartlepool where police, along with both home and visiting supporters, were involved in confrontations. The trust advocated for enhanced crowd management and better communication among police, football clubs, and supporters, while also strongly criticizing the tactics employed by Cleveland Police on that specific day. Cleveland Police expressed disappointment that the trust did not collaborate with the force in preparing the report, asserting that it contained factual inaccuracies and omitted crucial context. Superintendent John Wrintmore of the force stated: “This is particularly disappointing as, following the fixture in January, I was proactive in inviting representatives of the YCST and York City FC to meet with me to listen to their concerns and to explain the actions taken during the policing operation.” The trust indicated that the disturbances underscored several areas where planning, communication, and the management of visiting supporters could be enhanced to guarantee a safer and more favorable match day experience. Its recommendations included that supporters ought to demonstrate courtesy towards fellow fans, stewards, and police, and that police should prioritize de-escalation at “key interaction points.” Cleveland Police reported that a small number of individuals were responsible for the disorder that day, which involved flares being thrown inside the stadium and confrontations among supporters in public houses. Footage disseminated on social media depicted isolated outbreaks of violence occurring after the match as individuals proceeded towards the railway station. Witnesses cited in the YCST’s report alleged that police acted in a “heavy-handed” and “aggressive” manner, with some accounts detailing how innocent bystanders, including children and elderly individuals, were treated as if they were instigators of trouble. The force stated that the disorder on the day necessitated an immediate and adaptable response, which was described as robust and proportionate, aimed at preventing the situation from worsening. Superintendent Wrintmore further commented: “I firmly believe that had we not responded as we did, people may have been injured.” Cleveland Police confirmed that all complaints received underwent an independent review by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, and no instances of misconduct were identified. Moreover, the force pointed out that, although not mentioned in the YCST’s report, several York City supporters had been issued criminal convictions and football banning orders. The force affirmed its commitment to ongoing collaboration with football clubs and supporters to guarantee that fans can experience football matches in a secure setting. YCST declared its intention to champion an independent examination of the force’s policing methods and to strive for the implementation of the report’s recommendations. Additionally, the trust stated its ongoing commitment to educating supporters regarding their responsibilities and rights during football matches.