Justice for Middlesbrough Fans

Aim

Raise funds to cover legal costs to pursue action against police on behalf of football supporters.

Help put right injustice at the hands of the police! 'If everyone who reads this page was able to donate a minimum of £1 (or more) then we could fight for justice in an effort to show the police that we will not be backed into a corner when we know that we have done nothing wrong -  this is a pledge for equality of arms'.

This page has been set up to raise Legal Funds to support 44 Middlesbrough Football club supporters to pursue a claim against the police after they were detained and video recorded, without any apparent lawful justification, as a result of alleged 'intelligence'.  The police have refused to provide the 'intelligence' and are relying on public interest immunity.

The fans were handed dispersal notices to leave Derby City prior to attending an away game, however, they were then detained by a police cordon for 3-4 hours without any food; water; toilet facilities or explanation!

The police force have denied liability for false imprisonment and breach of Human Rights. The group have been forced to commence legal action. The harsh reality of the case is that the police have deep pockets and will continue to defend potentially forcing the claimants to withdraw due to lack of funds. This would be a complete injustice and a further display of the heavy handed and oppressive behaviour exhibited by the police, against football fans, all over the Country. 

The police are aware of the heavy court costs being imposed on individual campaigners, and also the costs of commissioning a Barrister and possible adverse costs to follow on from that if the cases progresses through the court system. 

The group have confirmed that their own solicitors will not profit from any funds raised. Any funds not required due to a successful outcome will be donated to charity.

The legal fund is administered by the 'Justice for Middlesbrough Fans' client account at Watson Woodhouse Solicitors in Middlesbrough who will who will consult with all claimants about any expenditure. The funds are held by Watson Woodhouse Solicitors for the purpose of this litigation only and will ensure that funds are spent according to their aims.

Any surplus funds not needed for legal costs will be split between the Boro walkers charity and one other local Teesside charity nominated by the supporters.

This project successfully funded on 10th August 2018