Liverpool fan issued with three-year Football Banning Order over racist slur versus Everton

A 54-year old Liverpool fan has been issued with a three year Football Banning Order for making racist comments during the derby against Everton at Goodison Park.

Robert Owen, of Fernbank Drive, Netherton, was handed the ban after it was reported that he directed a racist slur towards an Everton player during the game.

An officer from Merseyside Police overheard the insult and arrested Owen on suspicion of a Section 5 Racially Aggravated Public Order offence.

He was taken into custody for questioning and charged following an investigation.

On Friday, Owen appeared at South Sefton Magistrates Court in Bootle and was issued with a three year Football Banning Order, preventing him from attending any regulated football matches during that time.

He was also ordered to pay a £300 fine and court costs.

‘No place for hate on Merseyside’

Detective Inspector Steven O’Neill said: “Merseyside is an inclusive and welcoming place and, whatever football team you support, we stand united in saying that there is absolutely no place for hate anywhere on Merseyside.

“This result means that Owen will now have a criminal record, and the consequences of this for his future could prove to be significant.

“Let me be clear – to the tiny minority of fans who feel that racist slurs are acceptable, we will work with clubs to find those responsible and bring those responsible to justice.

“I would like to encourage any football fans with information on such incidents to speak with officers or stewards at the ground or call 101 so that offenders can be found and face the consequences of their actions.”