Sets of supporters from both sides given time behind bars, extended banning orders and large fines for football violence
Several individuals involved in football violence following the Bolton Wanderers versus Wigan Athletic match in August 2023 have been sentenced, receiving jail terms, suspended sentences, community orders, and Football Banning Orders (FBOs) ranging from 3 to 7 years. The police were praised for their thorough investigation and fair prosecution. The violence was described as pre-planned and disruptive to the community.
Twelve Football Hooligans Sentenced Over Westhoughton Violence After Bolton-Wigan Derby
Twelve men have been sentenced for their roles in the violent disorder that erupted in Westhoughton following the Bolton Wanderers versus Wigan Athletic match on 19 August 2023, with the most serious offender jailed for three years and four months.
Bradley Jones, 33, of Rose Avenue, Wigan, received the longest sentence at Bolton Crown Court this month, imprisoned for three years and four months for violent disorder while already on bail for similar offences from Southport. He also received a five-year Football Banning Order (FBO).
Stephen Ince, 41, of Marlbrook Walk, Westhoughton, was jailed for 21 months and given a six-year FBO, while Adam Sayers, 44, of Coach House, Kendal, received 12 months imprisonment and a six-year FBO. David Hockey, 34, of Wyre Avenue, Platt Bridge, was sentenced to 16 months for violent disorder and handed a seven-year FBO, including an existing one from Police Scotland.
The court heard how the violence was pre-planned, with innocent bystanders caught up in the disorder that followed the derby match. Seven other men received suspended sentences and community orders, while all defendants were given football banning orders ranging from three to seven years.
Detective Inspector Tony Lunt of Bolton CID said: “This was pre-planned disorder and innocent people were caught up in the violence. The violence that followed this match has no place in football and overshadowed a well-planned, well-policed operation after a lot of work between GMP and the two clubs.”
The successful prosecutions followed a complex investigation involving early-morning warrants executed in November 2023, with officers praised by the judge for their fair but strong prosecution using available evidence. Two 17-year-olds were previously dealt with and banned from football for three years each.
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