John Phipps, a 45-year-old resident of Slad Road in Stroud, has been banned from attending football games across the UK for three years following racially abusive behavior at a Swindon Town match. The incident, which took place nearly 18 months ago on October 19, 2024, at the County Ground in Swindon, involved Phipps shouting racial abuse directed at players.
Phipps pleaded guilty to racially aggravated harassment and was sentenced at Swindon Magistrates' Court on March 25. In addition to the football banning order, he was fined £400 with an extra £245 in court costs.
Wiltshire Police confirmed the nature of Phipps' conduct but did not disclose the exact comments made. Currently, there are 20 football banning orders active among residents of Swindon and Wiltshire.
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PC Dan Hatt, Wiltshire’s dedicated football officer, emphasized the force’s commitment to tackling discrimination in football. “We take our role in combating discrimination in football very seriously. When necessary, we prosecute offenders and seek Football Banning Orders to ensure matches remain safe and family-friendly environments,” he stated. PC Hatt also highlighted ongoing collaboration with Swindon Town Football Club and vigilant police presence at games to discourage anti-social behavior and protect fans who attend solely to support their team.