On the 25th of May 2012, Gary Brabin, ex manager of Luton Town Football Club, was convicted of a public order offence following a two day trial at Selby Magistrates’ Court. Sobia Ahmed was instructed to prosecute. The case concerned his behaviour on the touchline during a Blue Square Premier League match between York City F.C. and Luton Town F.C. Brabin had been ordered to leave the pitch by the referee as a result of using abusive language towards the York City members of staff. He failed to leave as directed and instead began to remonstrate with match officials. Stewarding staff approached Mr Brabin in order to escort him off the pitch and prevent the situation escalating further. Mr Brabin responded in an aggressive and abusive manner and ultimately pushed one of the stewards to the chest. He was then led away down the players’ tunnel by the stewards. District Judge Jonathan Bennett found that Mr Brabin’s behaviour was threatening and abusive and intended to cause others to fear immediate unlawful violence. He sentenced the defendant to a financial penalty.
Mr Brabin had also been charged with assaults against each of the stewards whilst in the tunnel. He was acquitted of both charges.
To read more about the press coverage of the case, click on the links below:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-18203649
http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/news/9727148.Ex_Luton_boss_admits_losing_his_composure/
Please click here to view Sobia's profile.
