Man arrested in connection with racist abuse at Tyne Wear Derby
Police, investigating a report of racist abuse during last month's Tyne Wear Derby, have arrested a man
Last updated 5 hours ago
A man has been arrested in relation to a report of racist abuse during the Tyne-Wear Derby at St James' Park on March 22.
The 45-year-old from the Gateshead area was arrested yesterday on suspicion of a racially-aggravated public order offence.
He has since been released on police bail pending further enquiries.
Detective Inspector Phil Guard, of Northumbria Police, said: “Racial abuse has absolutely no place in football or in our communities, and we will not tolerate this type of behaviour.
"Following proactive policing enquiries and close partnership working with both clubs and their supporters, a suspect has been arrested.
"They have since been bailed with robust conditions while the investigation continues.
"We will continue to work with clubs, supporters and partner agencies to tackle any form of criminality at football matches."
Referee Anthony Taylor briefly paused the game and spoke to both managers and club officials during the second half of the match after an incident was reported to him.
Newcastle later said in a statement that they were aware of a report of racism made by a visiting player against someone in the crowd.
Sunderland later praised their defender, Lutsharel Geertruida, for “displaying bravery and leadership by reporting this incident to the match officials”.
Taylor was approached by Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka in the 52nd minute, when the game was already stopped due to an injury to Newcastle’s Sven Botman.
Sunderland won the game 2-1.