Vulnerable Latics fan spared stadium ban
Reporter: Iram Ramzan
Date published: 22 January 2016
AN emotional Latics fan wept in court as he came close to being banned from attending any football match.
Oldham magistrates imposed a conditional order on Jarrod Graham, of Cliff Hill Road, Shaw, after he ran on to the Athletic pitch and tried to celebrate with a player when Oldham played Barnsley on November 21.
Eileen Rogers, prosecuting, said Graham (24), had previously been subject to a banning order for similar behaviour. Graham suffers from cerebral palsy. She said due to his vulnerable nature, Graham is influenced by other supporters, who encourage him to go on to the pitch.
She said: “I understand he loves the game but he’s preyed upon by others. This is to stop him being engaged in criminality; it’s a preventative measure.”
His grandad Kenneth Gibson represented him in court and wept while saying: “He’s extremely sorry. I think getting him banned again is going to the extreme. He has quite a few problems.”
Magistrate Aftab Haque gave him a two-year conditional discharge and order him to pay £100 in court costs. He can now go to matches only when accompanied by his grandfather.
Most Viewed News Stories
- 1Warning as major bus stop relocated and drivers asked to ‘arrive as late as possible’
- 2The primary school where pupils ‘take on leadership roles’ and teachers ‘are proud to work’
- 3Best friends Noah and Jasper are reaching for the stars after being signed by champions City
- 4Eight talented Oldham dancers gear up ahead of making a dream appearance in Swan Lake
- 5What does it mean if the council goes into No Overall Control?