5/ 5/2008
FOUR Manchester United fans who were freed from Italian prisons have revealed how they were backed by the notorious Roma Ultras in their campaign to be released.
The Reds supporters flew back to England at the weekend after spending nearly six months in Italian prisons.
They were locked up in December after being arrested on the day of a United game against Roma. Sentenced to two and a half years they were only freed after agreeing to plead guilty to assault and resisting arrest instead of appealing against their convictions.
While being kept at four different prisons they received letters of support from the infamous hard core Roma fans. The Ultras also unfurled a flag saying ‘Freedom for the Roma 4’ at a league game in Italy.
Kyle Dillon, Michael Burke, Nicholas Lucas, and Richard Wimmer were arrested after they were allegedly caught up in violence with Italian fans on the Duca d’Aosta bridge near Stadio Olympico.
Parliament
But as they returned to their families the men insisted they were innocent. Michael Burke, 35, from Little Hulton, Salford, whose case was debated in Parliament by his MP Barbara Keeley, had his birthday while in prison in December.
He said: “I am pleased to be back but still very aggrieved at spending six months in custody.
“I walked to the stadium with a group of lads. There was some trouble down the street and I turned away from it. I ran into some tear gas then a police officer hit me on the back of the head with a truncheon. I fell on the ground and was kicked by police.
“I feel disgusted that I have had to plead guilty. But the process was going on that long and we were being told so many lies I wanted to get back to my family.
“It has put me off travelling to Italy to watch United. I have been to ten to fifteen countries previously for games and never had any trouble.
“The first prison we were in we treated like dogs. We were locked up 23 hours a day, had half an hours exercise, and a shower once every two days.
Legal advice
“We had no proper legal advice whatsoever. I didn’t know what I was supposed to have done until I got to court. “I do intend to take this further to try and clear my name and will be contacting a solicitor.”
He was met on his release by, partner, Carmon Ducker, who has campaigned for him to freed.
Kyle Dillon, 23, from Mottram, near Hyde, was greeted by family and friends with banners as he arrived at John Lennon Airport in Liverpool.
He joked: “I’ve never been happier to be in Liverpool. I am not guilty, but if it had gone to trial it would have dragged on even longer.” His girlfriend Stacy Swann said: “It is brilliant to have him back home – now we can open Christmas and birthday presents. I went over to Italy 13 times to see him and couldn’t handle anymore having to leave him – it broke our hearts.”
Kyle’s mother, Janet, who mounted a high-profile campaign to get the four free, said: “The Italians wanted a result. They knew that if the lads had got off scot-free we would have sued them for wrongful arrest and they didn’t want egg on their faces. “It’s not over we will see what can be done to clear Kyle’s name.”
Showing posts with label Manchester Evening News. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Manchester Evening News. Show all posts
Monday, 5 May 2008
Friday, 2 May 2008
Roma Reds released
Deborah Haile
2/ 5/2008
FOUR Manchester United fans - jailed after they were arrested on the day of a Reds' match against Roma - have been freed.
Kyle Dillon, Michael Burk, Nicholas Lucas and Richard Wimmer were jailed in Italy in December.
The four men were alleged to have been caught up in violence involving Roma's infamous Ultras on the Duca d'Aosta bridge, near the Stadio Olympico.
And they were sentenced to serve up to two-years and six months, after an abbreviated trial procedure, which was conducted in Italian.
But families and friends of the supporters have continued to protest their innocence.
And earlier today the four men were freed after changing their plea to guilty in a court in Italy.
Worsley MP Barbara Keeley, who has been fighting for the release of constituent Michael Burk, has welcomed the court's decision.
She said: "I have campaigned on this issue since I found out all the problems with the representation and trial process of Michael Burk. I felt it was a wrongful conviction.
"I recently held a debate about the case at Westminster with the Europe Minister, Jim Murphy. The debate helped to publicise the fact that there had been many flaws up to and including the trial of the four Manchester United fans.
"Following this and all the publicity around the case, I am pleased that my constituent has now received a fair hearing and has won back his freedom.
"His family will be delighted to have him home.
"I would like to thank the Manchester Evening News for the excellent coverage given to this case.
"I am sure that MENs reporting was an important factor in turning this case around and bringing justice to the four Manchester United fans."
Michael Burk, 35, from Little Hulton, Salford, and Nicholas Lucas, 18, had been facing jail sentences of two years and five months.
Partially-sighted Kyle Dillon, 23, from Mottram, and Richard Wimmer, 39 , had been facing sentences of two years and six months.
2/ 5/2008
FOUR Manchester United fans - jailed after they were arrested on the day of a Reds' match against Roma - have been freed.
Kyle Dillon, Michael Burk, Nicholas Lucas and Richard Wimmer were jailed in Italy in December.
The four men were alleged to have been caught up in violence involving Roma's infamous Ultras on the Duca d'Aosta bridge, near the Stadio Olympico.
And they were sentenced to serve up to two-years and six months, after an abbreviated trial procedure, which was conducted in Italian.
But families and friends of the supporters have continued to protest their innocence.
And earlier today the four men were freed after changing their plea to guilty in a court in Italy.
Worsley MP Barbara Keeley, who has been fighting for the release of constituent Michael Burk, has welcomed the court's decision.
She said: "I have campaigned on this issue since I found out all the problems with the representation and trial process of Michael Burk. I felt it was a wrongful conviction.
"I recently held a debate about the case at Westminster with the Europe Minister, Jim Murphy. The debate helped to publicise the fact that there had been many flaws up to and including the trial of the four Manchester United fans.
"Following this and all the publicity around the case, I am pleased that my constituent has now received a fair hearing and has won back his freedom.
"His family will be delighted to have him home.
"I would like to thank the Manchester Evening News for the excellent coverage given to this case.
"I am sure that MENs reporting was an important factor in turning this case around and bringing justice to the four Manchester United fans."
Michael Burk, 35, from Little Hulton, Salford, and Nicholas Lucas, 18, had been facing jail sentences of two years and five months.
Partially-sighted Kyle Dillon, 23, from Mottram, and Richard Wimmer, 39 , had been facing sentences of two years and six months.
Tuesday, 1 April 2008
Free 'wrongly jailed' fan
Neal Keeling
1/ 4/2008
THE case of a Manchester United fan jailed in Italy is to be debated in Parliament.
Michael Burk, of Little Hulton, Salford, was one of four United supporters jailed after being arrested in December.
MP Barbara Keeley will tomorrow call for the release of supporters imprisoned after United and Roma fans clashed.
The four were caught up in violence with Roma's infamous Ultras on the Ponte Duca D'Aosta Bridge - a gathering point for Italian fans which visiting supporters had been asked to avoid.
Mr Burk, 35, a builder, was sentenced to two years and five months of which he has now served three months.
At his trial he was found guilty of violent behaviour and resisting arrest.
He is due to appeal against his sentence and conviction next month and his MP, Mrs Keeley, is pushing to secure his release. She will have a 30 minute debate in the House of Commons on Mr Burk's trial.
Families of all four of the jailed fans will visit Westminster to talk to their MPs.
Mr Burk denies being involved with the violence and claims he and other fans were beaten by Italian police during the clashes.
Worsley MP Mrs Keeley said problems with the trial process `could have led to a wrongful conviction'.
She said: "I am deeply concerned about the lack of translation and interpretation in his trial and the evidence-gathering before the trial.
"The court-allocated lawyer did not speak English and there was no effective interpretation either before or during the court hearing. Mr Burke did not even know until the second court hearing what the charges against him were, and statements and court papers were not translated either."
Mr Burk's trial was held under an `abbreviated procedure', which meant only written statements were submitted and the defendants could not speak or call witnesses.
Mrs Keeley said: "All of this falls far short of the standards of justice we expect in a court in an EU country. The right to a competent interpreter for anyone who does not understand the language being used in a court is usually considered a fundamental rule of justice.
"I am raising these matters in Parliament as I am keen to see the case against Mr Burke overturned on appeal and I hope the government can help to make sure that my constituent receives a fair hearing."
The other fans included partially-sighted Kyle Dillon, 23, from Mottram, Hyde, jailed for two years and six months for assault and resisting arrest.
Nicholas Lucas, 18, and Richard Wimmer, 39, were both also given two years and six months.
United play Roma again tonight in the quarter-finals of the Champions League.
Fans have been warned to stay away from potential trouble spots in the Italian capital.
In a letter published on United's website fans are told not to take metro trains to the Piazza Flaminio and stay away from Campo De Fiori, another meeting point for Roma fans.
1/ 4/2008
THE case of a Manchester United fan jailed in Italy is to be debated in Parliament.
Michael Burk, of Little Hulton, Salford, was one of four United supporters jailed after being arrested in December.
MP Barbara Keeley will tomorrow call for the release of supporters imprisoned after United and Roma fans clashed.
The four were caught up in violence with Roma's infamous Ultras on the Ponte Duca D'Aosta Bridge - a gathering point for Italian fans which visiting supporters had been asked to avoid.
Mr Burk, 35, a builder, was sentenced to two years and five months of which he has now served three months.
At his trial he was found guilty of violent behaviour and resisting arrest.
He is due to appeal against his sentence and conviction next month and his MP, Mrs Keeley, is pushing to secure his release. She will have a 30 minute debate in the House of Commons on Mr Burk's trial.
Families of all four of the jailed fans will visit Westminster to talk to their MPs.
Mr Burk denies being involved with the violence and claims he and other fans were beaten by Italian police during the clashes.
Worsley MP Mrs Keeley said problems with the trial process `could have led to a wrongful conviction'.
She said: "I am deeply concerned about the lack of translation and interpretation in his trial and the evidence-gathering before the trial.
"The court-allocated lawyer did not speak English and there was no effective interpretation either before or during the court hearing. Mr Burke did not even know until the second court hearing what the charges against him were, and statements and court papers were not translated either."
Mr Burk's trial was held under an `abbreviated procedure', which meant only written statements were submitted and the defendants could not speak or call witnesses.
Mrs Keeley said: "All of this falls far short of the standards of justice we expect in a court in an EU country. The right to a competent interpreter for anyone who does not understand the language being used in a court is usually considered a fundamental rule of justice.
"I am raising these matters in Parliament as I am keen to see the case against Mr Burke overturned on appeal and I hope the government can help to make sure that my constituent receives a fair hearing."
The other fans included partially-sighted Kyle Dillon, 23, from Mottram, Hyde, jailed for two years and six months for assault and resisting arrest.
Nicholas Lucas, 18, and Richard Wimmer, 39, were both also given two years and six months.
United play Roma again tonight in the quarter-finals of the Champions League.
Fans have been warned to stay away from potential trouble spots in the Italian capital.
In a letter published on United's website fans are told not to take metro trains to the Piazza Flaminio and stay away from Campo De Fiori, another meeting point for Roma fans.
Friday, 21 March 2008
MP's bid to free jailed Reds
Neal Keeling
21/ 3/2008
AN MP is stepping up the campaign to get a Manchester United fan released from jail in Italy.
Michael Burk, of Little Hulton, Salford, is one of four Reds fans imprisoned there.
Mr Burk is due to appeal against his sentence and conviction in May and his MP, Barbara Keeley, is pushing to secure his release.
She said she is `very concerned' about his treatment by the Italian legal system.
The four fans were arrested in December after being caught up in violent clashes before a Champions League game between Manchester United and Roma.
Mr Burk, 35, a builder, was sentenced to two years and five months of which he has now served three months.
At his trial he was found guilty of violent behaviour and resisting arrest.
Mr Burk denies being involved with the violence and he claims that he and other fans were beaten by Italian police during the clashes.
Mrs Keeley said: "It has become clear to me that the men were unfairly represented during their trial as they didn't understand a word of the proceedings. During the first hearing Mr Burk did not even know what the charges against him were.
"The court should have provided an English speaking lawyer or a translator and there was a serious lack of adequate language translation throughout the process. The solicitor appointed by the court was not interested in what the defendants were saying and he seems to have advised them badly.
"It seems there has been a miscarriage of justice and, if there has, I would like to see Mr Burk's conviction overturned."
Mr Burk's appeal hearing is scheduled for May 2. Next month, Manchester United are due to play Roma once again in the quarter finals of the Champions League.
Mrs Keeley hopes that by raising the profile of Michael Burk's case, the freedom of Michael and of the other three fans can be secured.
The other fans included partially sighted Kyle Dillon, 23, from Mottram, Hyde, who was sentenced to two years and six months after facing charges of assault and resisting arrest, which he denies.
The two other fans are Nicholas Lucas, 18, who received an identical sentence and Richard Wimmer, 39, who was given two years and six months.
Further information on the fans and how to show support for them is available on the website, reds4reds.co.uk
21/ 3/2008
AN MP is stepping up the campaign to get a Manchester United fan released from jail in Italy.
Michael Burk, of Little Hulton, Salford, is one of four Reds fans imprisoned there.
Mr Burk is due to appeal against his sentence and conviction in May and his MP, Barbara Keeley, is pushing to secure his release.
She said she is `very concerned' about his treatment by the Italian legal system.
The four fans were arrested in December after being caught up in violent clashes before a Champions League game between Manchester United and Roma.
Mr Burk, 35, a builder, was sentenced to two years and five months of which he has now served three months.
At his trial he was found guilty of violent behaviour and resisting arrest.
Mr Burk denies being involved with the violence and he claims that he and other fans were beaten by Italian police during the clashes.
Mrs Keeley said: "It has become clear to me that the men were unfairly represented during their trial as they didn't understand a word of the proceedings. During the first hearing Mr Burk did not even know what the charges against him were.
"The court should have provided an English speaking lawyer or a translator and there was a serious lack of adequate language translation throughout the process. The solicitor appointed by the court was not interested in what the defendants were saying and he seems to have advised them badly.
"It seems there has been a miscarriage of justice and, if there has, I would like to see Mr Burk's conviction overturned."
Mr Burk's appeal hearing is scheduled for May 2. Next month, Manchester United are due to play Roma once again in the quarter finals of the Champions League.
Mrs Keeley hopes that by raising the profile of Michael Burk's case, the freedom of Michael and of the other three fans can be secured.
The other fans included partially sighted Kyle Dillon, 23, from Mottram, Hyde, who was sentenced to two years and six months after facing charges of assault and resisting arrest, which he denies.
The two other fans are Nicholas Lucas, 18, who received an identical sentence and Richard Wimmer, 39, who was given two years and six months.
Further information on the fans and how to show support for them is available on the website, reds4reds.co.uk
Monday, 21 January 2008
Police 'can clear' jailed Reds fan
Deborah Haile
21/ 1/2008
THE mother of a United supporter jailed in Italy after fighting between rival fans wants Manchester police to help prove he is innocent.
Partially-sighted Kyle Dillon, 23, from Mottram, is serving a two-and-a-half year sentence in an Italian prison.
He was one of four men held by police in Rome after skirmishes between United and Roma fans in December.
Kyle was found guilty of violent behaviour and resisting arrest, but his family, and girlfriend Stacey Swann, say evidence heard by the court wrongly suggested Kyle was `known' to Greater Manchester Police as a travelling troublemaker.
Janet says GMP officers told her that Kyle was `known' to police as a fan and not a troublemaker. She believes the Italian judicial system may have misinterpreted information.
But she says GMP have not yet put anything in writing that could be used at her son's appeal, which starts next month.
Janet said: "My son has never been in trouble with the police and they have told me that all they said was that he is a Manchester United fan.
"But when I asked for that in writing they said that any evidence that they may or may not have given to the Italian police is confidential. I am just disgusted with them."
Greater Manchester Police say it remains a matter for the Italians.
Three other supporters, including Michael Burk, 35, from Little Hulton, Salford were jailed. All four will appeal. Their next stage of their hearing is expected to be on February 23.
21/ 1/2008
THE mother of a United supporter jailed in Italy after fighting between rival fans wants Manchester police to help prove he is innocent.
Partially-sighted Kyle Dillon, 23, from Mottram, is serving a two-and-a-half year sentence in an Italian prison.
He was one of four men held by police in Rome after skirmishes between United and Roma fans in December.
Kyle was found guilty of violent behaviour and resisting arrest, but his family, and girlfriend Stacey Swann, say evidence heard by the court wrongly suggested Kyle was `known' to Greater Manchester Police as a travelling troublemaker.
Janet says GMP officers told her that Kyle was `known' to police as a fan and not a troublemaker. She believes the Italian judicial system may have misinterpreted information.
But she says GMP have not yet put anything in writing that could be used at her son's appeal, which starts next month.
Janet said: "My son has never been in trouble with the police and they have told me that all they said was that he is a Manchester United fan.
"But when I asked for that in writing they said that any evidence that they may or may not have given to the Italian police is confidential. I am just disgusted with them."
Greater Manchester Police say it remains a matter for the Italians.
Three other supporters, including Michael Burk, 35, from Little Hulton, Salford were jailed. All four will appeal. Their next stage of their hearing is expected to be on February 23.
Friday, 11 January 2008
Jailed fans to question evidence
Deborah Haile
11/ 1/2008
FOUR Manchester United fans jailed in Italy for their part in a fight are to lodge an appeal against their convictions today.
Kyle Dillon, 23, from Mottram, Michael Burk, 35, from Little Hulton, Salford, Nicholas Lucas, 18, and Richard Wimmer, 39, were jailed by an Italian court last month.
The four had found themselves in the middle of skirmishes on the Duca d'Aosta Bridge, near the Stadio Olimpico - a hang-out for Roma's hard-line supporters known as the Ultras - before the Reds' match against the Italian side on December 12.
The court found them guilty of violent behaviour and of resisting arrest. Kyle, who is partially sighted, was jailed for two-and-a-half years along with Richard. Michael and Nicholas were sentenced to two years and five months.
Italian media reports at the time suggested the four had been part of a group of about 60 supporters that broke away from an escort and made their own way to the stadium before hitting trouble. And there had been suggestions that the four were known to police in England.
But the men and their families maintain their innocence and will lodge an appeal with the Italian courts.
This will allow them to question the evidence.
Kyle's mum Janet says the appeal can only question evidence that was presented to the court in the initial hearing.
That's because his first solicitor opted for an `abbreviated trial', which doesn't allow for defendants to offer any evidence of their own and limits the scope of their appeal. As a result, Janet says the appeal is expected to question claims by the Italian police that they had not used tear gas and that they had resisted arrest.
She says they will also seek the support of Greater Manchester Police to quash claims that the four were known to police.
She says it could be months for the process to be complete. But, ultimately, she believes Kyle will be cleared.
Janet, who has just returned from a trip to the Regina Coeli prison with the families of the three other men, said: "Kyle has told me everything that happened and I know that he is not lying.
"He is a strong lad. I can see he is really sad, but he is trying to be strong for us. He's worried about all of us at home."
Kyle suffers from an inherited condition called Stargardt's Macular Dystrophy, resulting in only partial vision in each eye.
Two years ago Kyle was featured in the M.E.N. after winning Individual of the Year from the Manchester Employer Coalition, after he successfully qualified as a gas engineer.
11/ 1/2008
FOUR Manchester United fans jailed in Italy for their part in a fight are to lodge an appeal against their convictions today.
Kyle Dillon, 23, from Mottram, Michael Burk, 35, from Little Hulton, Salford, Nicholas Lucas, 18, and Richard Wimmer, 39, were jailed by an Italian court last month.
The four had found themselves in the middle of skirmishes on the Duca d'Aosta Bridge, near the Stadio Olimpico - a hang-out for Roma's hard-line supporters known as the Ultras - before the Reds' match against the Italian side on December 12.
The court found them guilty of violent behaviour and of resisting arrest. Kyle, who is partially sighted, was jailed for two-and-a-half years along with Richard. Michael and Nicholas were sentenced to two years and five months.
Italian media reports at the time suggested the four had been part of a group of about 60 supporters that broke away from an escort and made their own way to the stadium before hitting trouble. And there had been suggestions that the four were known to police in England.
But the men and their families maintain their innocence and will lodge an appeal with the Italian courts.
This will allow them to question the evidence.
Kyle's mum Janet says the appeal can only question evidence that was presented to the court in the initial hearing.
That's because his first solicitor opted for an `abbreviated trial', which doesn't allow for defendants to offer any evidence of their own and limits the scope of their appeal. As a result, Janet says the appeal is expected to question claims by the Italian police that they had not used tear gas and that they had resisted arrest.
She says they will also seek the support of Greater Manchester Police to quash claims that the four were known to police.
She says it could be months for the process to be complete. But, ultimately, she believes Kyle will be cleared.
Janet, who has just returned from a trip to the Regina Coeli prison with the families of the three other men, said: "Kyle has told me everything that happened and I know that he is not lying.
"He is a strong lad. I can see he is really sad, but he is trying to be strong for us. He's worried about all of us at home."
Kyle suffers from an inherited condition called Stargardt's Macular Dystrophy, resulting in only partial vision in each eye.
Two years ago Kyle was featured in the M.E.N. after winning Individual of the Year from the Manchester Employer Coalition, after he successfully qualified as a gas engineer.
Saturday, 29 December 2007
Jailed fans 'treated like animals'
Manchester Evening News
Don Frame
29/12/2007
FAMILIES of four Manchester United fans jailed for more than two years in Italy say they are being treated like animals in prison.
The men, who denied violent behaviour and resisting arrest before United's game against Roma earlier this month, have to remain behind bars until their appeals are heard - which could be up to six months away.
Families flew out to the Rome jail before Christmas and have now joined forces to try to get them out.
One of the four, Kyle Dillon, 23, from Mottram, near Hyde, is partially sighted. He was jailed for two years and five months.
His mother Janet said: "I couldn't believe this was an EU country when we saw the conditions they are being kept in.
"The cells are freezing cold, the lads were kept for two weeks in the same clothes they had been wearing when they were brought in, the food is awful, and the prison officers treat them like absolute dirt.
"They are kept confined to their cells all day with the exception of a 20-minute exercise break. Nobody seems to speak any English and they are constantly being bombarded with forms they are asked to sign, which they can't understand.
"We are all on a horrifying emotional roller-coaster, and nobody seems to be doing anything to help us."
Italian police claim the four men were part of a group of 60 or 70 fans dressed in black who crossed a bridge outside the stadium in search of a fight.
Families, however, say that English supporters were taken by bus to the ground where they were told to get off in the middle of Italian fans who then bombarded them with bottles and missiles.
Another jailed fan is Nicholas Lukacs, 18, from Whaley Bridge, Derbyshire. His mum Anna said: "Riot police moved in, tear gas was used, and officers just kept hitting them with batons.
"Nicholas said he fell, and held out his hands to the police as if to say `I've done nothing, help me' and they took no notice and still hit him.
"Somebody from the British Embassy went to see him and told us that he was all right.
"In fact, he was covered in bruises from the beating and could hardly walk for three days. The conditions in which they are being held are horrendous. We have been told they will remain there until the appeal hearing.
"The next step now is to appoint our own lawyer, who may also represent one or two of the other lads. We are just ordinary decent families struggling to cope with a situation that is totally alien to us."
The other fans in prison are Michael Burk 35, from Little Hulton, Salford, who was jailed for two years and four months, and Richard Wimmer, 39, believed to be from Yorkshire, who got two years five months.
Don Frame
29/12/2007
FAMILIES of four Manchester United fans jailed for more than two years in Italy say they are being treated like animals in prison.
The men, who denied violent behaviour and resisting arrest before United's game against Roma earlier this month, have to remain behind bars until their appeals are heard - which could be up to six months away.
Families flew out to the Rome jail before Christmas and have now joined forces to try to get them out.
One of the four, Kyle Dillon, 23, from Mottram, near Hyde, is partially sighted. He was jailed for two years and five months.
His mother Janet said: "I couldn't believe this was an EU country when we saw the conditions they are being kept in.
"The cells are freezing cold, the lads were kept for two weeks in the same clothes they had been wearing when they were brought in, the food is awful, and the prison officers treat them like absolute dirt.
"They are kept confined to their cells all day with the exception of a 20-minute exercise break. Nobody seems to speak any English and they are constantly being bombarded with forms they are asked to sign, which they can't understand.
"We are all on a horrifying emotional roller-coaster, and nobody seems to be doing anything to help us."
Italian police claim the four men were part of a group of 60 or 70 fans dressed in black who crossed a bridge outside the stadium in search of a fight.
Families, however, say that English supporters were taken by bus to the ground where they were told to get off in the middle of Italian fans who then bombarded them with bottles and missiles.
Another jailed fan is Nicholas Lukacs, 18, from Whaley Bridge, Derbyshire. His mum Anna said: "Riot police moved in, tear gas was used, and officers just kept hitting them with batons.
"Nicholas said he fell, and held out his hands to the police as if to say `I've done nothing, help me' and they took no notice and still hit him.
"Somebody from the British Embassy went to see him and told us that he was all right.
"In fact, he was covered in bruises from the beating and could hardly walk for three days. The conditions in which they are being held are horrendous. We have been told they will remain there until the appeal hearing.
"The next step now is to appoint our own lawyer, who may also represent one or two of the other lads. We are just ordinary decent families struggling to cope with a situation that is totally alien to us."
The other fans in prison are Michael Burk 35, from Little Hulton, Salford, who was jailed for two years and four months, and Richard Wimmer, 39, believed to be from Yorkshire, who got two years five months.
Saturday, 22 December 2007
Family back jailed fan
Manchester Evening News
Deborah Haile
22/12/2007
THE family of a partially-sighted Manchester United fan jailed in Italy for his part in a fight against Roma fans have vowed to fight to overturn the court's decision.
Kyle Dillon, aged 23, was arrested by Italian Police before the Reds took on Roma at the Stadio Olimpico last Wednesday .
Skirmishes had broken out on the Duca d'Aosta bridge near the Stadio Olimpico, which is known as a hangout for Roma's hardline supporters, known as `Ultras'.
Following the fighting Kyle was one of four supporters accused of violent behaviour and resisting arrest.
Italian media reports at the time suggested the four men had been part of a group of around 60 supporters that broke away from an escort and made their own way to the stadium before hitting trouble.
And there have been suggestions that the four men were known to police in England, though none were subject to any football banning orders.
Yesterday a court in Rome sentenced Kyle to two-years-and-six-months in jail. At the same hearing in Rome yesterday Michael Burk, 35, from Little Hulton, Salford, and Nicholas Lucas, 18, were jailed for two years and five months. Richard Wimmer, 39, was given a sentence of two years and six months.
Character references
But Kyle's family - who collected character references and medical reports for the court in advance of the hearing - have been shocked by the court's decision.
They say Kyle has travelled all over the world to watch United and never been in any trouble with the police and they refuse to believe Kyle could have instigated a fight.
Now they are determined to do all they can to over-turn the decision at appeal.
After the hearing they say Kyle leaned over to his mum Janet and said simply: "Mum I promise I haven't done anything wrong."
And that is all the confirmation girlfriend Stacey and the rest of Kyle's family say they need to continue their fight against the court's verdict.
Stacey, who is set to fly out to Italy today , said: "They are saying he was part of an organised gang, but that just isn't true. He doesn't even know the guys he was arrested with. Kyle has never been in any trouble and he would never do that.
"Kyle is just a brilliant person. Whenever we go out everyone says that I am so lucky to have him."
Stacey says Kyle has told his mum he isn't even sure of what he has been accused of because his current lawyer has to communicate with him through a translator.
And he has told her that at the prison, Regina Coeli, he is not allowed to wash regularly and is only allowed out of his cell for 20 minutes a day.
Kyle's dad John says the strain of prison life is taking its toll on Kyle, who suffers from an inherited condition called Stargardt's Macular Dystrophy, resulting in only partial vision in each eye.
"He is a strong lad with a strong character, but he doesn't seem to be coping too well," said John. "He is very light-hearted and gets on with it, but he is hardly getting to have a wash and he's only allowed out of his cell for 20 minutes a day.
"I spoke to Janet this morning and she says Kyle is adamant that he has done nothing wrong. He was in the wrong place at the wrong time.
"Kyle is a smashing lad who has never been in trouble with the police in his life. He has been all over the world with United and never been in any trouble.
"He's a lad who always strives to do his best. He doesn't want people to see he has a disability and he's a lad who goes out and works hard to get on with his life.
"He is back in court on Monday and we are hoping that they will suspend the sentence. If they don't suspend the sentence on Monday his appeal could go on for months."
Janet has already obtained the services of an English-speaking private solicitor in Rome, although a mix-up with the paperwork meant that she was not able to represent Kyle at the court case yesterday.
Now they are hoping she may be able to pick up the case at the next stage.
Reliving the moments before Kyle's arrest, fellow United fan and friend Steven Surrey, 32, from Hattersley, said: "We were on our way to the ground from the city centre.
Weapons
"As we came off the bridge there were a number of Roma fans waiting with weapons and projectiles and trouble erupted. We were at the back of a group of United fans who were attacked by Roma fans.
"After a couple of minutes the police got involved by dispersing the United group. I just ran for my life. We got separated and later I got a text from Kyle to say he had been arrested."
According to the British Embassy the four men will appear in court again on Monday where an appeals tribunal will decide whether or not to release them.
This would effectively mean that they would be serving suspended sentences and raises the prospect that they could be home in time for Christmas.
Two years ago Kyle was featured in the MEN after winning `Individual of the Year' from the Manchester Employer Coalition, after he successfully qualified as a gas engineer.
Deborah Haile
22/12/2007
THE family of a partially-sighted Manchester United fan jailed in Italy for his part in a fight against Roma fans have vowed to fight to overturn the court's decision.
Kyle Dillon, aged 23, was arrested by Italian Police before the Reds took on Roma at the Stadio Olimpico last Wednesday .
Skirmishes had broken out on the Duca d'Aosta bridge near the Stadio Olimpico, which is known as a hangout for Roma's hardline supporters, known as `Ultras'.
Following the fighting Kyle was one of four supporters accused of violent behaviour and resisting arrest.
Italian media reports at the time suggested the four men had been part of a group of around 60 supporters that broke away from an escort and made their own way to the stadium before hitting trouble.
And there have been suggestions that the four men were known to police in England, though none were subject to any football banning orders.
Yesterday a court in Rome sentenced Kyle to two-years-and-six-months in jail. At the same hearing in Rome yesterday Michael Burk, 35, from Little Hulton, Salford, and Nicholas Lucas, 18, were jailed for two years and five months. Richard Wimmer, 39, was given a sentence of two years and six months.
Character references
But Kyle's family - who collected character references and medical reports for the court in advance of the hearing - have been shocked by the court's decision.
They say Kyle has travelled all over the world to watch United and never been in any trouble with the police and they refuse to believe Kyle could have instigated a fight.
Now they are determined to do all they can to over-turn the decision at appeal.
After the hearing they say Kyle leaned over to his mum Janet and said simply: "Mum I promise I haven't done anything wrong."
And that is all the confirmation girlfriend Stacey and the rest of Kyle's family say they need to continue their fight against the court's verdict.
Stacey, who is set to fly out to Italy today , said: "They are saying he was part of an organised gang, but that just isn't true. He doesn't even know the guys he was arrested with. Kyle has never been in any trouble and he would never do that.
"Kyle is just a brilliant person. Whenever we go out everyone says that I am so lucky to have him."
Stacey says Kyle has told his mum he isn't even sure of what he has been accused of because his current lawyer has to communicate with him through a translator.
And he has told her that at the prison, Regina Coeli, he is not allowed to wash regularly and is only allowed out of his cell for 20 minutes a day.
Kyle's dad John says the strain of prison life is taking its toll on Kyle, who suffers from an inherited condition called Stargardt's Macular Dystrophy, resulting in only partial vision in each eye.
"He is a strong lad with a strong character, but he doesn't seem to be coping too well," said John. "He is very light-hearted and gets on with it, but he is hardly getting to have a wash and he's only allowed out of his cell for 20 minutes a day.
"I spoke to Janet this morning and she says Kyle is adamant that he has done nothing wrong. He was in the wrong place at the wrong time.
"Kyle is a smashing lad who has never been in trouble with the police in his life. He has been all over the world with United and never been in any trouble.
"He's a lad who always strives to do his best. He doesn't want people to see he has a disability and he's a lad who goes out and works hard to get on with his life.
"He is back in court on Monday and we are hoping that they will suspend the sentence. If they don't suspend the sentence on Monday his appeal could go on for months."
Janet has already obtained the services of an English-speaking private solicitor in Rome, although a mix-up with the paperwork meant that she was not able to represent Kyle at the court case yesterday.
Now they are hoping she may be able to pick up the case at the next stage.
Reliving the moments before Kyle's arrest, fellow United fan and friend Steven Surrey, 32, from Hattersley, said: "We were on our way to the ground from the city centre.
Weapons
"As we came off the bridge there were a number of Roma fans waiting with weapons and projectiles and trouble erupted. We were at the back of a group of United fans who were attacked by Roma fans.
"After a couple of minutes the police got involved by dispersing the United group. I just ran for my life. We got separated and later I got a text from Kyle to say he had been arrested."
According to the British Embassy the four men will appear in court again on Monday where an appeals tribunal will decide whether or not to release them.
This would effectively mean that they would be serving suspended sentences and raises the prospect that they could be home in time for Christmas.
Two years ago Kyle was featured in the MEN after winning `Individual of the Year' from the Manchester Employer Coalition, after he successfully qualified as a gas engineer.
Friday, 21 December 2007
Reds fan in Rome court
Manchester Evening News
21/12/2007
A partially-sighted Manchester United fan will appear before an Italian court , after being arrested on the day of the Reds' match against Roma.
Kyle Dillon, 23, from Mottram, near Hyde, faces charges of assault and resisting arrest.
His family - who insist Kyle would never start a fight - have been told he could spend Christmas behind bars, if he is convicted.
His mum Janet, who has been unable to talk to her son since his arrest, has flown out to Italy to support him.
Kyle is one of four United fans being held in jail in Rome.
The arrests followed fighting outside the Stadio Olimpico before the Champions League match.
21/12/2007
A partially-sighted Manchester United fan will appear before an Italian court , after being arrested on the day of the Reds' match against Roma.
Kyle Dillon, 23, from Mottram, near Hyde, faces charges of assault and resisting arrest.
His family - who insist Kyle would never start a fight - have been told he could spend Christmas behind bars, if he is convicted.
His mum Janet, who has been unable to talk to her son since his arrest, has flown out to Italy to support him.
Kyle is one of four United fans being held in jail in Rome.
The arrests followed fighting outside the Stadio Olimpico before the Champions League match.
United fans in Rome jailed
Manchester Evening News
21/12/2007
FOUR Manchester United fans have been jailed after they were arrested on the day of the Reds' match against Roma.
The fans - two of which are from Manchester - will now spend Christmas in jail after they were sentenced to at least two years behind bars.
Partially sighted Kyle Dillon, 23, from Mottram, near Hyde, was sentenced to two years and six months in prison, after facing charges of assault and resisting arrest.
Meanwhile at the same hearing Michael Burk, 35, from Little Hulton, Salford, and Nicholas Lucas, 18, were jailed for two years and five months.
Richard Wimmer, 39, was given a sentence of two years and six months.
Belief
Kyle's mum Janet had flown out to the hearing with character references and medical statements of support, adamant in the belief that her son would never have started a fight. And when she flew out for the hearing yesterday, she had still not been able to speak to her son since his arrest.
The four arrests followed fighting outside the Stadio Olimpico last Wednesday evening. According to police, the four Manchester United supporters were part of an organised group of 60 hooligans who had broken away from those travelling with the official supporters clubs to the Champions League game in Rome on 12 December.
The police said they made for the River Bar, said to be a notorious hangout for the Roma Ultras, where fighting broke out with bottles and chairs being thrown.
The four men, who were dressed in black with scarves wrapped around their faces, were all identified by Greater Manchester Police spotters outside the ground.
Five United fans were stabbed during skirmishes between a group of 50 rival fans on the Wednesday evening.
21/12/2007
FOUR Manchester United fans have been jailed after they were arrested on the day of the Reds' match against Roma.
The fans - two of which are from Manchester - will now spend Christmas in jail after they were sentenced to at least two years behind bars.
Partially sighted Kyle Dillon, 23, from Mottram, near Hyde, was sentenced to two years and six months in prison, after facing charges of assault and resisting arrest.
Meanwhile at the same hearing Michael Burk, 35, from Little Hulton, Salford, and Nicholas Lucas, 18, were jailed for two years and five months.
Richard Wimmer, 39, was given a sentence of two years and six months.
Belief
Kyle's mum Janet had flown out to the hearing with character references and medical statements of support, adamant in the belief that her son would never have started a fight. And when she flew out for the hearing yesterday, she had still not been able to speak to her son since his arrest.
The four arrests followed fighting outside the Stadio Olimpico last Wednesday evening. According to police, the four Manchester United supporters were part of an organised group of 60 hooligans who had broken away from those travelling with the official supporters clubs to the Champions League game in Rome on 12 December.
The police said they made for the River Bar, said to be a notorious hangout for the Roma Ultras, where fighting broke out with bottles and chairs being thrown.
The four men, who were dressed in black with scarves wrapped around their faces, were all identified by Greater Manchester Police spotters outside the ground.
Five United fans were stabbed during skirmishes between a group of 50 rival fans on the Wednesday evening.
Tuesday, 18 December 2007
Fears for Reds in Rome jail
Manchester Evening News
Don Frame
18/12/2007
A SECOND football fan from Manchester is in danger of missing a family Christmas at home after being arrested in Rome last week.
Builder Mike Burke 35, from Little Hulton, Salford, spent his birthday in a prison cell where he is being held until he appears in court on Friday.
He was arrested outside the Stadio Olimpico before the Reds' match against Roma last week and is to be charged with assault and resisting arrest.
Mr Burke's partner Carmon Ducker fears for his health. Mike suffers from asthma and Carmon said she had found his inhaler in luggage brought back from Rome. "He would be really stuck without it as he has to use it every day," she said.
"What I can't understand is why the Italian authorities have held him in prison so long on charges that are just bizarre. Mike has never got involved in soccer violence or any kind of trouble. It's just laughable.
Confronted
"From what I am told, the lads have done nothing wrong. They were walking to the stadium when they were confronted by police who seemed to be looking for trouble.
"I wanted to fly out there, but the British Embassy told me there was no guarantee that I would get to see Mike. The whole thing is a nightmare."
She fears that even if Mike is released on Friday he won't be able to organise a flight to get him home for Christmas.
The M.E.N. revealed at the weekend how relatives of partially-sighted United fan Kyle Dillon, 23, from Mottram in Hyde, fear he too will spend Christmas in a cell. He is also due to be charged with assault and resisting arrest and his family are anxious about his health.
Kyle suffers from Stargardt's Macular Dystrophy and has only partial vision in each eye.
Kyle's mum Janet 47, said: "We have been told that the best-case scenario is that the charges will be thrown out on Friday, but we have been warned he could spend six or seven weeks in prison if they find him guilty."
Don Frame
18/12/2007
A SECOND football fan from Manchester is in danger of missing a family Christmas at home after being arrested in Rome last week.
Builder Mike Burke 35, from Little Hulton, Salford, spent his birthday in a prison cell where he is being held until he appears in court on Friday.
He was arrested outside the Stadio Olimpico before the Reds' match against Roma last week and is to be charged with assault and resisting arrest.
Mr Burke's partner Carmon Ducker fears for his health. Mike suffers from asthma and Carmon said she had found his inhaler in luggage brought back from Rome. "He would be really stuck without it as he has to use it every day," she said.
"What I can't understand is why the Italian authorities have held him in prison so long on charges that are just bizarre. Mike has never got involved in soccer violence or any kind of trouble. It's just laughable.
Confronted
"From what I am told, the lads have done nothing wrong. They were walking to the stadium when they were confronted by police who seemed to be looking for trouble.
"I wanted to fly out there, but the British Embassy told me there was no guarantee that I would get to see Mike. The whole thing is a nightmare."
She fears that even if Mike is released on Friday he won't be able to organise a flight to get him home for Christmas.
The M.E.N. revealed at the weekend how relatives of partially-sighted United fan Kyle Dillon, 23, from Mottram in Hyde, fear he too will spend Christmas in a cell. He is also due to be charged with assault and resisting arrest and his family are anxious about his health.
Kyle suffers from Stargardt's Macular Dystrophy and has only partial vision in each eye.
Kyle's mum Janet 47, said: "We have been told that the best-case scenario is that the charges will be thrown out on Friday, but we have been warned he could spend six or seven weeks in prison if they find him guilty."
Monday, 17 December 2007
Mum's fears for Rome jail fan
Manchester Evening News
Ben Rooth
17/12/2007
RELATIVES of a partially-sighted United fan arrested in Rome last week say they fear he will spend Christmas in a prison cell.
Kyle Dillon, 23, from Mottram, in Hyde, was detained on Wednesday outside the Stadio Olimpico before the match against Roma kicked off. Members of his family have been unable to speak to him since and are `greatly concerned' for his health and well-being.
The Foreign Office confirmed to the M.E.N. yesterday that Kyle is among four United fans still being held in jail in Rome. He will appear before magistrates in the Italian capital this Friday on charges alleging assault and resisting arrest.
His mother Janet, 47, said: "I can't tell you how worried we are about Kyle's well-being. I keep imagining that he was among those who suffered the effects of the tear gas released by the Italian police.
"I can't honestly believe that he was involved in any fighting outside the stadium. He has never been in any trouble before. I've found the Italian legal system incredibly frustrating as I've not been able to speak to him or find out how he is.
"His friends had to bring his luggage and passport back to Manchester with them - as there was no one to leave it with there - so he is stranded. I've spoken to lawyers in Rome and am preparing to fly out to Italy with some money and his passport if I have to before he appears in court on Friday. I just want him home for Christmas."
Kyle suffers from an inherited condition called Stargardt's Macular Dystrophy which means that he only has partial vision in each eye.
He was featured in the M.E.N. two years ago after winning `Individual of the Year' from the Manchester Employer Coalition after he successfully qualified as a gas engineer.
A spokesman for the Foreign Office confirmed that Kyle is in good health and has been assessed by doctors.
"I can confirm that the doctors there are aware of Kyle's medical condition," he added.
Ben Rooth
17/12/2007
RELATIVES of a partially-sighted United fan arrested in Rome last week say they fear he will spend Christmas in a prison cell.
Kyle Dillon, 23, from Mottram, in Hyde, was detained on Wednesday outside the Stadio Olimpico before the match against Roma kicked off. Members of his family have been unable to speak to him since and are `greatly concerned' for his health and well-being.
The Foreign Office confirmed to the M.E.N. yesterday that Kyle is among four United fans still being held in jail in Rome. He will appear before magistrates in the Italian capital this Friday on charges alleging assault and resisting arrest.
His mother Janet, 47, said: "I can't tell you how worried we are about Kyle's well-being. I keep imagining that he was among those who suffered the effects of the tear gas released by the Italian police.
"I can't honestly believe that he was involved in any fighting outside the stadium. He has never been in any trouble before. I've found the Italian legal system incredibly frustrating as I've not been able to speak to him or find out how he is.
"His friends had to bring his luggage and passport back to Manchester with them - as there was no one to leave it with there - so he is stranded. I've spoken to lawyers in Rome and am preparing to fly out to Italy with some money and his passport if I have to before he appears in court on Friday. I just want him home for Christmas."
Kyle suffers from an inherited condition called Stargardt's Macular Dystrophy which means that he only has partial vision in each eye.
He was featured in the M.E.N. two years ago after winning `Individual of the Year' from the Manchester Employer Coalition after he successfully qualified as a gas engineer.
A spokesman for the Foreign Office confirmed that Kyle is in good health and has been assessed by doctors.
"I can confirm that the doctors there are aware of Kyle's medical condition," he added.
Thursday, 13 December 2007
Police chief wants Roma ban
Manchester Evening News
13/12/2007
POLICE chief Dave McLuckie has called for Roma to be thrown out of European football after more trouble marred their Champions League clash with Manchester United last night.
Five United fans were stabbed in fighting before the final group game between the two sides in Italy as a further depressing chapter was added to the the history of violence involving the Rome club.
Eighteen travelling United supporters needed hospital treatment in April after clashes on the terraces outside the city's Stadio Olimpico Stadium, while three Middlesbrough fans were stabbed and many others injured as trouble flared the night before their UEFA Cup clash with Roma in March last year.
Councillor McLuckie, chairman of Cleveland Police Authority, was among those caught up in the violence that night and is an outspoken critic of the way the Roman authorities have dealt with football hooliganism.
The Stadio Olimpico is due to host the final of the Champions League in 2009 and, in the wake of the latest incidents, Mr McLuckie believes the time has now come for UEFA to act.
Ban
Mr McLuckie said: "Roma should be banned from these competitions. They should not be allowed to enter from the start because the authorities are not able to look after the people who come to their city to watch football.
"They should just be banned from European football. They should not be involved in the Champions League or the UEFA Cup, and that should be the case until they clean up their act."
English clubs suffered just that fate in the wake of the Heysel tragedy, and Mr McLuckie believes the way British police have subsequently dealt with football hooliganism could be of use to the Italian authorities.
He said: "We are the experts, sadly, because we needed to be.
"We have a real grip on this kind of thing and I know the British police would be happy to give the Italian authorities and help they require in tackling this issue.
"At the end of the day, the authorities in Rome have failed to keep control of these fans time after time after time, and the Italian authorities as a whole must get in there.
"Here in this country, we do raids on known hooligans before away matches and before big international matches and we stop those individuals travelling.
"They must be more proactive in the way they deal with football hooliganism.
Attack
"When people travel to Rome, they don't expect to be attacked and they certainly don't expect to be stabbed, but this is becoming the norm.
"I wouldn't go back there. I love football and I have travelled all over to watch it, but I wouldn't go back to the place.
"The very least you are going to get is a beating - and to try to stem the some of the problems, the authorities take the away fans and treat them worse than animals."
Much of the trouble in Rome has been laid firmly at the feet of the club's notorious Ultras.
However, Mr McLuckie admits that, whoever is responsible, it is only by chance that a British fan has not been killed in the city and has called on the Italian Government to step in.
He said: "I am absolutely astounded that so far, no-one is dead - but it will not be long before it happens.
"A few weeks ago when the police officer accidentally shot a fan, they rioted in the streets as if they were saying, 'We will do what we want and how dare you try to stop us and kill one of us?'
"Until the authorities make a real crackdown on the people responsible instead of allowing them to riot in the streets as they did a short few weeks ago and take control of their city, this is going to happen time and time again.
"It is not the Rome authorities who need to do this now, it is the Italian authorities from the very top who need to address this situation now."
13/12/2007
POLICE chief Dave McLuckie has called for Roma to be thrown out of European football after more trouble marred their Champions League clash with Manchester United last night.
Five United fans were stabbed in fighting before the final group game between the two sides in Italy as a further depressing chapter was added to the the history of violence involving the Rome club.
Eighteen travelling United supporters needed hospital treatment in April after clashes on the terraces outside the city's Stadio Olimpico Stadium, while three Middlesbrough fans were stabbed and many others injured as trouble flared the night before their UEFA Cup clash with Roma in March last year.
Councillor McLuckie, chairman of Cleveland Police Authority, was among those caught up in the violence that night and is an outspoken critic of the way the Roman authorities have dealt with football hooliganism.
The Stadio Olimpico is due to host the final of the Champions League in 2009 and, in the wake of the latest incidents, Mr McLuckie believes the time has now come for UEFA to act.
Ban
Mr McLuckie said: "Roma should be banned from these competitions. They should not be allowed to enter from the start because the authorities are not able to look after the people who come to their city to watch football.
"They should just be banned from European football. They should not be involved in the Champions League or the UEFA Cup, and that should be the case until they clean up their act."
English clubs suffered just that fate in the wake of the Heysel tragedy, and Mr McLuckie believes the way British police have subsequently dealt with football hooliganism could be of use to the Italian authorities.
He said: "We are the experts, sadly, because we needed to be.
"We have a real grip on this kind of thing and I know the British police would be happy to give the Italian authorities and help they require in tackling this issue.
"At the end of the day, the authorities in Rome have failed to keep control of these fans time after time after time, and the Italian authorities as a whole must get in there.
"Here in this country, we do raids on known hooligans before away matches and before big international matches and we stop those individuals travelling.
"They must be more proactive in the way they deal with football hooliganism.
Attack
"When people travel to Rome, they don't expect to be attacked and they certainly don't expect to be stabbed, but this is becoming the norm.
"I wouldn't go back there. I love football and I have travelled all over to watch it, but I wouldn't go back to the place.
"The very least you are going to get is a beating - and to try to stem the some of the problems, the authorities take the away fans and treat them worse than animals."
Much of the trouble in Rome has been laid firmly at the feet of the club's notorious Ultras.
However, Mr McLuckie admits that, whoever is responsible, it is only by chance that a British fan has not been killed in the city and has called on the Italian Government to step in.
He said: "I am absolutely astounded that so far, no-one is dead - but it will not be long before it happens.
"A few weeks ago when the police officer accidentally shot a fan, they rioted in the streets as if they were saying, 'We will do what we want and how dare you try to stop us and kill one of us?'
"Until the authorities make a real crackdown on the people responsible instead of allowing them to riot in the streets as they did a short few weeks ago and take control of their city, this is going to happen time and time again.
"It is not the Rome authorities who need to do this now, it is the Italian authorities from the very top who need to address this situation now."
United reveal Roma disappointment
Manchester Evening News
13/12/2007
MANCHESTER United have confirmed their dismay at the violence which scarred their latest visit to Rome.
Five visiting fans were stabbed and a total of nine needed hospital treatment after trouble flared ahead of last night's Champions League encounter with Roma at the Stadio Olimpico.
Although the problems were nowhere near as widespread as those which erupted during the quarter-final meeting between the two teams in the Italian capital last April, when police baton-charged United fans inside the stadium, it emphasised the deep-rooted hooligan problem in Italy.
United officials worked tirelessly in the build-up to last night's 1-1 draw to try to ensure the game passed off peacefully. Sadly, those efforts proved fruitless.
"As a club, we are disappointed that this has occurred as we worked extremely hard with the relevant authorities to avoid any such circumstances," said a United spokesman.
"Naturally we are concerned for the quick recovery of those involved, but are relieved that the injuries, according to authorities, are 'light'."
While many will question why 1200 United fans travelled to the game despite knowing the problems encountered last time around, for the Italian authorities, a fresh outbreak of violence is the last thing they need.
UEFA chief executive David Taylor was genuinely shocked when informed of the trouble, having been at the game, and knows what a worrying development it is given the Stadio Olimpico has already been confirmed as host to the 2009 final.
Middlesbrough fans need no reminding that three of their fans were stabbed before a UEFA Cup tie at the ground in March 2006.
Ban
And Councillor Dave McLuckie, chairman of Cleveland Police Authority, believes the time has come for Roma to be banned from European competition.
Mr McLuckie said: "Roma should not be allowed to enter from the start because the authorities are not able to look after the people who come to their city to watch football.
"They should just be banned from European football. They should not be involved in the Champions League or the UEFA Cup, and that should be the case until they clean up their act."
English clubs suffered just that fate in the wake of the Heysel tragedy, and Mr McLuckie believes the way British police have subsequently dealt with football hooliganism could be of use to the Italian authorities.
He said: "We are the experts, sadly, because we needed to be.
"We have a real grip on this kind of thing and I know the British police would be happy to give the Italian authorities any help they require in tackling this issue.
"At the end of the day, the authorities in Rome have failed to keep control of these fans time after time after time, and the Italian authorities as a whole must get in there.
"Here in this country, we do raids on known hooligans before away matches and before big international matches and we stop those individuals travelling.
"They must be more proactive in the way they deal with football hooliganism.
"When people travel to Rome, they don't expect to be attacked and they certainly don't expect to be stabbed, but this is becoming the norm.
"I wouldn't go back there. I love football and I have travelled all over to watch it, but I wouldn't go back to the place.
"The very least you are going to get is a beating - and to try to stem the some of the problems, the authorities take the away fans and treat them worse than animals."
13/12/2007
MANCHESTER United have confirmed their dismay at the violence which scarred their latest visit to Rome.
Five visiting fans were stabbed and a total of nine needed hospital treatment after trouble flared ahead of last night's Champions League encounter with Roma at the Stadio Olimpico.
Although the problems were nowhere near as widespread as those which erupted during the quarter-final meeting between the two teams in the Italian capital last April, when police baton-charged United fans inside the stadium, it emphasised the deep-rooted hooligan problem in Italy.
United officials worked tirelessly in the build-up to last night's 1-1 draw to try to ensure the game passed off peacefully. Sadly, those efforts proved fruitless.
"As a club, we are disappointed that this has occurred as we worked extremely hard with the relevant authorities to avoid any such circumstances," said a United spokesman.
"Naturally we are concerned for the quick recovery of those involved, but are relieved that the injuries, according to authorities, are 'light'."
While many will question why 1200 United fans travelled to the game despite knowing the problems encountered last time around, for the Italian authorities, a fresh outbreak of violence is the last thing they need.
UEFA chief executive David Taylor was genuinely shocked when informed of the trouble, having been at the game, and knows what a worrying development it is given the Stadio Olimpico has already been confirmed as host to the 2009 final.
Middlesbrough fans need no reminding that three of their fans were stabbed before a UEFA Cup tie at the ground in March 2006.
Ban
And Councillor Dave McLuckie, chairman of Cleveland Police Authority, believes the time has come for Roma to be banned from European competition.
Mr McLuckie said: "Roma should not be allowed to enter from the start because the authorities are not able to look after the people who come to their city to watch football.
"They should just be banned from European football. They should not be involved in the Champions League or the UEFA Cup, and that should be the case until they clean up their act."
English clubs suffered just that fate in the wake of the Heysel tragedy, and Mr McLuckie believes the way British police have subsequently dealt with football hooliganism could be of use to the Italian authorities.
He said: "We are the experts, sadly, because we needed to be.
"We have a real grip on this kind of thing and I know the British police would be happy to give the Italian authorities any help they require in tackling this issue.
"At the end of the day, the authorities in Rome have failed to keep control of these fans time after time after time, and the Italian authorities as a whole must get in there.
"Here in this country, we do raids on known hooligans before away matches and before big international matches and we stop those individuals travelling.
"They must be more proactive in the way they deal with football hooliganism.
"When people travel to Rome, they don't expect to be attacked and they certainly don't expect to be stabbed, but this is becoming the norm.
"I wouldn't go back there. I love football and I have travelled all over to watch it, but I wouldn't go back to the place.
"The very least you are going to get is a beating - and to try to stem the some of the problems, the authorities take the away fans and treat them worse than animals."
Wednesday, 12 December 2007
Britons arrested in Roma
Manchester Evening News
12/12/2007
TWO Britons were arrested and a number injured as violence broke out ahead of tonight's Champions League tie between Roma and Manchester United, the Foreign Office said.
Fans of the rival teams clashed as they gathered outside the Stadio Olimpico in Rome for the group qualifying match.
Reports in Italy said three Manchester United supporters had been stabbed but were not thought to be seriously hurt.
The Foreign Office could not confirm the number of people injured but said two Britons had been detained.
A Foreign Office spokesman said: "It appears there was trouble outside the stadium.
"A number of British fans were injured and two British nationals have been arrested.
"Our consular officials are on the way to the hospital to check on conditions, the numbers involved and whether anyone needs assistance.
"The situation is now said to be calm both outside and inside the stadium."
12/12/2007
TWO Britons were arrested and a number injured as violence broke out ahead of tonight's Champions League tie between Roma and Manchester United, the Foreign Office said.
Fans of the rival teams clashed as they gathered outside the Stadio Olimpico in Rome for the group qualifying match.
Reports in Italy said three Manchester United supporters had been stabbed but were not thought to be seriously hurt.
The Foreign Office could not confirm the number of people injured but said two Britons had been detained.
A Foreign Office spokesman said: "It appears there was trouble outside the stadium.
"A number of British fans were injured and two British nationals have been arrested.
"Our consular officials are on the way to the hospital to check on conditions, the numbers involved and whether anyone needs assistance.
"The situation is now said to be calm both outside and inside the stadium."
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