Darlington FC fan handed three-year ban for threatening behavior

James Cosgrove, 32, of Hercules Street, Darlington, has been banned from regulated football for three years after pleading guilty to threatening conduct in Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court earlier this month.

Cosgrove was arrested during a riot on Yarm Road, Darlington ahead of Darlington FC’s game against Chester City on 1 April.

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Police and club officials had warned fans before the game that antisocial behavior would not be tolerated.

Inspector Sara Baxter of Durham Constabulary said: “Fans of both teams had been warned before the game not to get involved in causing trouble and were made aware of the possible consequences of ignoring that advice.”

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“We will not tolerate such behavior before, during or after a game.

“Hopefully that sends the message that anyone who causes trouble risks being banned for a longer period of time.”

The court ordered Cosgrove to do 120 hours of unpaid work over the next 12 months and pay expenses of £85.