Football fan who made Nazi salute at AFC Wimbledon banned from grounds

A 42-year old male who made a racist gesture at a football match between AFC Wimbledon and Milton Keynes Dons has been banned for three years from attending the football ground.

Alan Strank appeared at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court on Thursday 3 November where he pleaded guilty to a racially aggravated offence under Section 4 of the Public Order Act.

Strank also received a £180 fine and will have to complete 50 hours of unpaid community service.

On April 9, 2022 Strank was spotted make a Nazi salute at Milton Keynes Dons supporters a the Cherry Red Records Stadium.

Although the incident was not reported that day, an investigation started at a post-event review of body-worn and CCTV footage.

Police Constable James Crawley, the investigating officer, said: “Racism has no place within football, or indeed in society, and those who engage in such behaviour should be under no illusion that they are committing a crime. The consequences of that crime were clearly demonstrated today.

“Genuine football fans and players are fed up with this kind of toxic discourse surrounding the game and we will use all the policing powers available to us to stop it from happening.”

In a previous incident on 18 September 2021, the London club made this statement. “AFC Wimbledon have been made aware of racist comments and gesturing from a couple of individuals in the home section during the Plymouth Argyle match.

“The club take racist abuse very seriously and are currently investigating the alleged incident. We are working with the Met police and are in communication with Kick it out to thoroughly deal with the incident.

“Should those allegations be proven, the club will be taking the strongest action possible.”

The football club has committed to stamping out racism and other forms of abuse. “At the end of last year, the club’s existing statement relating to inclusive behaviour that forms part of the ground regulations was expanded.

“Previously it covered racism and homophobia specifically, but it now includes any form of abuse indirectly or directly targeted at any member of our footballing community.”