No charges will be made against a Liverpool fan who was accused of racially abusing Oldham Athletic player Tom Adeyemi.
Enhanced isolated sound on CCTV and nearby fans supported the arrested man’s contention he did not shout racist abuse in the FA Cup match back in January.
Jane Roden, Head of the Complex Casework Unit, CPS Mersey-Cheshire, said:
“In the 79th minute of the game, Oldham Athletic player Tom Adeyemi alleged that a fan had shouted a racially abusive comment at him, after he retrieved the ball from near the crowd.
“Mr Adeyemi reported the incident to the referee. The referee notified the fourth official, who then notified the police. “No action was taken until after the final whistle. Mr Adeyemi spoke to officers after the match and gave a statement to the police on January 8.
“A suspect was identified and arrested. During interview he admitted shouting at the player, but denied it was of a racial nature. He was released on police bail pending a decision from the CPS.
“I have viewed the extensive CCTV footage available, which has been enhanced to isolate and improve the sound. I have also read statements from Mr Adeyemi, the match officials and the many independent witnesses to the incident, many of whom came forward after the game to offer their evidence after hearing media reports of the incident.
“There are two important factors I have relied upon when making my decision: the enhanced CCTV footage and the high proportion of witness statements which tend to support the suspect’s version of events. “On the balance of all of the evidence, I have therefore concluded that there is insufficient evidence to bring any criminal charges in this case and I have advised Merseyside Police of my decision.”
Don’t expect this to get the same amount of media coverage as the original allegations did.
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