Posted on 22nd November 2024
York City fans call for “independent review” into Cleveland Police
York City Supporters’ Trust have called for an independent review into Cleveland Police’s football operations following the force’s handling of City’s trip to Hartlepool earlier this year.
Today York City Supporters Trust are publishing their report into Cleveland Police’s operation around the Hartlepool United vs York City match at Victoria Park back in January.
The trust have been gathering evidence, witness statements and speaking to officials since the fixture, where post-game incidents led to eight arrests.
“The report calls for an independent review of the Cleveland Police’s approach to football policing particularly their use of significant force and confrontational tactics,” the trust said today. “Proportionality and de-escalation must become priorities in future operations.”
York City Supporters’ Trust’s report says that the volume and behaviour of Cleveland Police officers at key locations raised tensions ahead of the game, describing the force’s approach as overly hostile towards travelling football supporters.
A number of shocking incidents are highlighted in the report, including one where a child was struck by a police officer trying to separate supporters.
They said: “The incidents surrounding the Hartlepool vs. York City match reveal multiple areas where planning, communication, and management of away supporters could be
improved to ensure a safer and more positive match-day experience.
“Key challenges were identified in the coordination between police, football clubs, and supporters – particularly regarding pre-game arrangements, police tactics, and crowd management.
“Addressing these areas will be essential in mitigating similar issues in the future.”
The report is wide-ranging – including criticisms of both clubs, both sets of fans, North Yorkshire Police and even the trust itself, promising to appoint a volunteer supporter liaison officer (SLO) at the trust to try to help prevent such incidents in future.
However, the trust reserved its most significant criticisms for Cleveland Police – who it accused of delaying the trust’s own investigation into the game and refusing to accept responsibility for the events of the matchday.
The trust said: “We hope [the report] will serve as a foundation for constructive dialogue and collaboration, ultimately improving safety, fan experiences, and relationships across the football community.”
