Prosecutors report success in tackling football related disorder

The Lord Advocate has reported on the success of the Offensive Behaviour at Football and Threatening Communications (Scotland) Act 2012.

The Act came into force on 1st March 2012 and created a new criminal offence of “offensive behaviour at regulated football matches,” which criminalises offensive or threatening behaviour in relation to football matches that is likely or would be likely to incite public disorder.

According to the latest figures, 89% of cases reported to COPFS under the legislation have been prosecuted, and there have been convictions in 83% of these.

Lord Advocate, Frank Mulholland QC, said:

“Football authorities and the clubs are playing their part to tackle the problem with such initiatives as Show Racism and Bigotry the Red Card and we will continue working with them, police and other agencies, adopting a zero-tolerance approach to those who are involved in promoting sectarianism, religious offences and football related disorder and violence of any kind.”