THREE people have been arrested and two people have been charged following the Reading FC vs Cardiff City FC football match on Saturday, April 18.
Gareth Whitehouse, aged 41, of Lee, Cardiff, was charged with one count of public order on Sunday, April 19, after officers intervened on Greyfriars Road when Whitehouse attempted to engage in disorder.
Lewis Campbell-Williams, aged 20 and of Lenham Road, Headcorn, Kent, was charged on the same day with possession of a bladed article and theft from a shop, after being arrested at the stadium.
Both were released on bail to appear at Reading Magistrates’ Court in June.
A 15-year-old boy from Reading and a 17-year-old boy from Croydon were each arrested on suspicion of breaching a Section 34 dispersal order which was in place for the match.
A child protection referral has been made, with appropriate safeguarding measures put in place.
As part of a policing operation, officers identified and arrested a 17-year-old boy from Reading in connection with an ongoing rape investigation unrelated to the football match.
The boy has since been released on police bail pending further enquiries.
Dedicated football officer for Reading FC, PC Steve Mountain, said: “We would like to thank members of the public for their cooperation while the Section 35 dispersal orders were in place.
“The dispersal orders were enacted as a preventative measure to help ensure the safety of fans and local communities in the area.
“Following Saturday afternoon’s fixture, officers made a number of arrests and charges. This highlights the important role of dedicated football policing operations, including the work of trained football spotters, who help identify individuals of concern and support a safe and enjoyable environment for the vast majority of supporters.
“Our officers and spotters work closely together at matches and beyond to protect communities and prevent disorder.”
