Don’t end up with a red card during Euros 2024
As England gear up for their second match of the 2024 UEFA European Football Championship, Devon & Cornwall Police is reminding people to have fun, enjoy the football, but don’t end up with a red card.
England will be playing Denmark in their second group match of the tournament; the game kicks off at 5pm UK time on Thursday 20 June. England are due to play their third match on Tuesday 25 June.
During the Euro 2020 tournament, held in July 2021, there were more than 3,000 recorded incidents of anti-social behaviour - with the majority of them relating to rowdy and inconsiderate behaviour. The National Centre for Domestic Violence also indicates that reports of domestic abuse increase during knock-out football tournaments.
Devon & Cornwall Police are dedicating resources to combat and investigate these incidents during the tournament. The Force is warning people that there are consequences if they use or threaten violence against their partners.
Detective Inspector Ben Ferguson said: “We want to reassure people that we know most football fans do not commit domestic abuse offences, however, it’s essential that we remain proactive in tackling abuse by locating perpetrators and protecting victims of domestic violence.
“We are committed to supporting and protecting victims at all times, not just during sporting events. Help is available to both victims and perpetrators of domestic abuse, and we encourage anyone involved to seek help.”
If you are a victim of domestic abuse, please visit www.domesticabusehelp.co.uk for support and guidance.
If you display abusive behaviour or feel you might need help, visit: www.respect.uk.net
If you have been affected by crime, please visit victimcare-dc.org to access support services and information on your rights and how to navigate the criminal justice system. You can also call Victim Support on 08 08 16 89 111 or Devon and Cornwall Police’s Victim Care Unit on 01392 475900.
If you fear for your or someone else’s safety and need help immediately, always dial 999.