A football fan who mocked opposing team supporters using a picture of Bradley Lowery has pleaded guilty to a public order offence. Dale Houghton, 31, was photographed laughing while holding up a picture of the six-year-old who died of cancer in 2017. The photo was taken during a match against the Sunderland football team, with which the young boy was closely associated. Houghton was charged with the offence after images circulated on social media platform X, formerly Twitter. He is due to be sentenced on 17 November.
The incident was later described by the district judge, James Gould, as “utterly deplorable”. All sentencing options are currently open, including a prison sentence. Bradley Lowery captured the hearts of many football fans during his time as a mascot for Sunderland. He was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a rare form of cancer, at the age of 18 months.
Rotherham-based Houghton was released on bail following the guilty verdict. No further details about his background or personal situation have been made available. The judge’s comments have been echoed by a number of football supporters, many of whom paid tribute to Bradley Lowery during his fight against the disease. The young boy struck up a close friendship with his Sunderland hero, striker Jermain Defoe, before his death.
The case highlights the potential for football fans to behave inappropriately during matches. Social media platforms have played an increasing role in illustrating poor behaviour during games and sporting events. Many clubs have taken steps to improve their supporters’ behaviour, with strict penalties imposed on those who are seen to fall short of acceptable standards. The Bradley Lowery case has served as a stark reminder of the need for respect and humanity during sporting occasions
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