Football hooligan jailed after violent clash at Grimsby Town v Sheffield United friendly

Derem Smith, 28, of Bridby Street, Sheffield, who was arrested and charged with assaulting a police officer following the match on Saturday, July 23, appeared at Grimsby Magistrates Court for sentencing after a judge him found guilty last month.

He was jailed for 56 days, made to pay £100 compensation and given a six-year ban from football matches.

It comes after 29 men were charged with violent disorder in connection with disturbances following the match, which saw glasses, bottles and other items thrown after rival fans clashed outside Blundell Park, Cleethorpes.

Superintendent Dave Hall, from Humberside Police, said: "It is completely unacceptable that our officer was assaulted in this incident while on-duty protecting and serving the community.

"We are committed to ensuring offenders are identified, charged and brought to justice, and I am pleased he has been imprisoned for his actions.

“The court has clearly judged Derem Smith’s behaviour post-match as wholly unacceptable after it resulted in a six-year Football Banning Order and has prevented him from attending matches across the country and causing any further disruption.

“The vast majority of those attending sporting events including this match are genuine fans and I am sure they will also be pleased action has been taken to clamp down on disorder. I would like to reiterate that there is no place for this kind of violence and disorder around what should be an enjoyable, family friendly activity, supporting your local team.

“Our message is clear – behaviour of this kind will not be tolerated and we will take action to tackle anyone responsible.”