Arsenal fan banned from all football matches for three years after admitting homophobic chanting

A football supporter from East London has been banned from attending matches after he admitted homophobic chanting in the away supporters end during a Premier League match. 20-year-old Luke Reece, of Lonsdale Avenue, Romford, was spotted by stewards at the American Express Community Stadium in Brighton being abusive and alerted officers from Sussex Police.

During the match between Brighton and Arsenal on October 2 last year Reece attempted to hide knowing that security had witnessed his behaviour. However during half time he was located in the concourse area and was escorted from the stadium.

The Romford man was was arrested under the Public Order Act on suspicion of using threatening or abusive behaviour, likely to cause harassment, alarm, or distress. He was later charged under the Football Offences Act with indecent or racial chanting at a football match, aggravated by homophobia, and he was sent a postal requisition to attend court.

At Brighton Magistrates’ Court on April 5, Reece admitted the charge and was sentenced. He was ordered to pay a £106 fine, £85 court costs and a £34 victim surcharge. The court also imposed a Football Banning Order which will last for three years.

The Football Banning Order prevents him from attending any football matches across the country, with further restrictions surrounding Arsenal matches both at home or away. He must also remain outside of any towns or cities where the club is playing on matchdays for a period of four hours prior to kick off and for four hours after the final whistle.

Reece is also banned from being within two miles of any event played by the England national men’s football team for four hours before and after matches. The banning order also requires Reece to