More fans jailed over play-off trouble

York City players had to be shepherded off the pitch by police as missiles were hurled at them by Hatters fans after the Town went down 1-0.

Outside the ground, the trouble continued, with a mob taking brooms, mops, pans and plants from outside a DIY store in Bury Park and throwing them at police.

Following the scenes, CCTV footage was released by the police to the media in the effort to track down the offenders.

David Cremins, 24, of Meyrick Avenue, Luton, who pleaded guilty in January at Luton Magistrates Court was sentenced to 14 months in prison at Luton Crown Court on Wednesday and also received a six-year football banning order.

Gary Booth, 40, of Kinross Crescent, Luton, was found guilty after a trial at Luton Crown Court in August and on Wednesday was sentenced to ten months in prison. He also received a six-year football banning order.

John Ruocco, 21, of Kingswood Close, Houghton Regis, who pleaded guilty in January at Luton Crown Court, was sentenced to five months in prison, suspended for 18 months. He was also ordered to carry out 250 hours of unpaid work, pay £500 costs and received a five-year football banning order.

Altogether thirty seven people were arrested after the incident. In addition the total of 14 people sentenced, eight others received cautions for affray and 15 teenagers received final warnings.

Four people were identified by members of the public through the release of CCTV images in the media.

Superintendent David Boyle said: “The game of football is a sport that families should be able to enjoy in safety.

“I hope the sentencing results today show that we will use all methods available to them to bring anyone who breaks the law to justice.”