HERTS POLICE GEAR UP FOR THE WORLD CUP - Fans urged to play their part as well


WITH the World Cup kicking off later this month, Hertfordshire Constabulary is reminding football fans to act sensibly to ensure they have a safe and great time.

Officers will carry on their regular patrols across the county during the tournament to ensure everyone can enjoy the competition, whichever team they support.

Chief Inspector Richard Harbon who is leading the Constabulary's World Cup response said: “We want everyone to enjoy the World Cup and we are working with our partners, such as Hertfordshire County Council, to ensure it will be a trouble free tournament for everyone. We know the overwhelming majority of football fans are law abiding and peaceful and we will ensure our policing style is fair and appropriate. However, we will take action against those who wish to spoil the atmosphere for everyone else.”

In the run up to the event, Herts Police will be speaking to everyone who has a football banning order and will be advising them of the consequences of breaching their bans. Work is also being carried out to identify potential troublemakers who are looking to fly out to South Africa and they will be detained if necessary before and during the competition.

Fans travelling to the country to get close to the action are also being reminded there are different laws in South Africa compared to the UK coupled with a different policing style and should familiarise themselves with the law before they travel.

Richard continued: “We know people get excited about the World Cup and want to get behind their teams – however it is important to behave sensibly or face the consequences. We want people to take responsibility for their own actions, such as knowing their limits when drinking, making sure they're making appropriate travel arrangements if they've drunk alcohol and not taking out their frustration on their partners or relatives. The World Cup isn't an excuse for breaking the law and unacceptable behaviour will not be tolerated.”

The Constabulary is working with a range of local authorities, including Hertfordshire County Council, district councils and the NHS, to remind fans about the dangers of excess drinking. Drinking too much alcohol can have devastating consequences on people's lives – it can make people more aggressive and more likely to commit a crime. Drunken behaviour could result in an £80 fine or a night in the cells.

Too much alcohol can also make people less in control and more vulnerable to being a victim of crime, such as having wallets or mobile phones stolen, being assaulted or even sexually assaulted.

Richard added: “You can still enjoy alcohol while watching the football but it's important to drink responsibly to stay safe. You can still have a great time if you alternate alcoholic drinks with soft or low alcohol ones, drink more slowly and consume alcohol with food.”

“I'd encourage football fans not to binge drink as they risk getting involved in alcohol-related violence or ending up in hospital after walking into the path of an oncoming car as a drunken pedestrian,” said Cllr Keith Emsall, Executive Member for Community Safety & Culture.

“The World Cup should be fun for everyone and by being drink aware, people can protect themselves, not only from serious health problems, but also from becoming a victim of crime.”

Due to the intense and highly charged atmosphere the World Cup creates, the Constabulary, in partnership with Hertfordshire County Council is urging all fans to think about their behaviour in a bid to reduce incident of Domestic Abuse or Domestic Violence.

Domestic Abuse is any incident of threatening behaviour, violence or abuse (psychological, physical, sexual, financial or emotional) and it can lead to breakdown of relationships and/or families. People can be arrested and go to prison if they are convicted of an offence.

People worried about their behaviour can get support. The ‘healthier relationships' course was recently launched for men who have been involved in incidents of domestic abuse within their families but have not resulted in prosecutions. More information can be obtained by emailing ERDAP@herts.pnn.police.uk

There are a range of confidential services available to help and guide victims. People can call the Domestic Violence/Abuse helpline on 08 088 088 088 which is free to call between 10am and 8pm Monday to Friday. The number will not appear on a phone bill.

Superintendent Jon Chapman commented: “Any excessive drinking, and this is linked to major sporting events like the World Cup, can lead to an increase in domestic abuse. This is totally unacceptable. The Constabulary and our partners take a tough line on domestic abuse and are totally committed to investigating the crime, protecting the victim and relentlessly pursuing the offender. Let's please ensure the sporting event is enjoyed by everyone.”

“I would also urge any victims or anyone one who is affected by this crime to report it and make use of a range of services that are available.”

More information and advice for fans about how they can enjoy the World Cup safely and without trouble can be found at www.herts.police.uk.

June 2010