Man Banned from Football for Three Years After Brandishing Knife at Reading FC Match

A man has been banned from attending Reading FC matches for three years after brandishing a knife at a recent match. Lewis Campbell-Williams, aged 21, was seen displaying a shiny object and acting in a threatening manner towards away supporters during a Reading FC match against Cardiff City at the Select Car Leasing Stadium in April.

Why it Matters for Reading

The incident highlights the importance of ensuring the safety of all fans attending Reading FC matches. PC Steve Mountain, Dedicated Football Officer for Reading FC, stated that there is absolutely no place for weapons at football matches and that the Football Banning Order imposed on Campbell-Williams means he is prohibited from attending regulated football matches in the UK for the next three years.

What Comes Next?

Reading FC is currently 12th in League One, with 63 points from 46 games, and is 40 points behind leaders Lincoln. The team's recent form has been LDLLL, with a loss to Blackpool in their last match. Reading FC's next fixture is against Charlton at home on August 1.

The Incident

Campbell-Williams was seen displaying a shiny object and acting in a threatening manner towards away supporters during a Reading FC match against Cardiff City at the Select Car Leasing Stadium in April. Officers intervened and carried out a search, locating a bladed article in his bag. He was arrested and charged the same day.

The Sentence

Campbell-Williams was sentenced to one year in prison, suspended for 18 months, and was also ordered to complete 180 hours of unpaid work and pay £272 in costs. He pleaded guilty to possession of a bladed article and an unrelated charge of theft from a shop last month.

Conclusion

The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring the safety of all fans attending Reading FC matches. The Football Banning Order imposed on Campbell-Williams will prevent him from attending regulated football matches in the UK for the next three years.