Five told to apologise after disorder at Pompey title celebration
It broke out at an event involving 300 people in Southsea
Last updated 23rd Aug 2024
Five men have been issued with community resolution orders following disorder which broke out at celebrations to mark Portsmouth's League One title win.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police has concluded its investigations into incidents which broke out at the O'Neills bar in Albert Road in Southsea at around 11pm on April 16th.
Around 300 people were at the event, which took place hours after Pompey beat Barnsley 3-2 to confirm both promotion to the Championship and the league crown.
The force said they received reports of a number of offences, including theft, criminal damage and racial abuse aimed at a staff member.
Superintendent Paul Markham, district commander for Portsmouth, said:
"What became clear very quickly was how distressing this incident was for a number of people present, in particular the staff who were working in O'Neill's that night.
"Despite doing their best to appeal to people's better nature, the staff were swiftly met with abuse from some of those present.
"The most concerning of this being a member of staff who was racially abused by someone within the crowd. Unfortunately, we have not been able to identify the person responsible for the comments, but this has had a considerable effect on that staff member.
"No one should be met with abuse while at work, or made to feel like their safety is threatened."
Police have now concluded voluntary incidents with a number of people who were at the venue on the night.
Two 23-year-old men, two 26-year-old men and a 31-year-old man have been ordered to make apologies as part of their actions.
Supt Markham continued:
"This was a night of celebration, for the club, for the players, for the fans and for the city itself, and deservedly so after such an incredible season, finally securing a return to the Championship.
"Throughout the investigation, it has been important to us to ensure all action taken is proportionate and appropriate in the circumstances.
"While we have issued community resolutions to five people, we have a clear message to everyone present that night; disorder like this will not be tolerated.
"The majority of people attending the football are there to enjoy the game, and events like this that accompany it, but it cannot be used as an opportunity to commit criminal offences."
Portsmouth captain Marlon Pack has issued an apology on behalf of the club in connection with the disturbances.
In a statement posted on social media, Pack said:
"On Tuesday, April 16, 2024 we had an unforgettable and amazing experience defeating Barnsley to both secure promotion to the Championship and clinch the League One title. It was the very pinnacle of everything as a group of players we had worked so hard to achieve from the start of the season.
"After celebrating at Fratton Park, some of us continued our celebrations further by going on to visit O’Neill’s in Southsea. We were joined there by a large crowd both inside and outside the venue.
"Most there wanted to celebrate a huge occasion responsibly, respectfully and safely. However, we are disappointed that these celebrations overstepped the mark, leading to some scenes of disorder and damage at the pub.
"As players we are especially concerned that members of staff at O’Neill’s were exposed to intimidation and personal abuse, leaving them feeling upset, distressed and concerned for their safety. This was unacceptable.
"We would like to apologise unreservedly to O’Neill’s and especially to those members of their hard-working staff on duty that evening for our part in that evening.
"We would also like to apologise to the local community of Southsea and also to the police whose resources were not only stretched on the evening but then had to commit further time to investigate the matter."