A football fan, who initially claimed he was waving to someone, has been fined more than £300 after admitting making a Nazi salute towards Spurs supporters.
Newcastle United fan Shay Asher, 24, admitted the racially aggravated offence of causing harassment during a Premier League game at St James’ Park in October.
Rehana Haque, prosecuting, told Newcastle Magistrates’ Court when the former Royal Engineer was challenged by a steward in the stadium, “his face dropped and he quickly ran off towards the exit”.
An image of the incident was shared by police and Asher, of Gibside View, Winlaton, Gateshead, handed himself in to police.
During an interview with officers, Asher initially denied the offence but later wept and said he felt ashamed.
Mrs Haque said a woman in the home crowd saw a man perform a Nazi salute with his finger over his mouth to make a moustache and heard him say he wanted to fight Tottenham fans.
The prosecution read out a victim statement from a Spurs supporter who said the gesture was clearly intended to harass fans of the club which is known to have a strong Jewish support
Dementia research: Ex-professional footballers at risk from headers wanted for brain study
Cowboys will still be in football – but the game might be getting a new sheriff
Independent football regulator set for football amid warning delay could be ‘catastrophic’ for the game
The statement added: “It is an incredibly offensive reminder of what humanity is capable of.”
Alanna Wesencraft, defending, said it was an isolated incident and that Asher got swept up in what was happening in the game and knew he had acted inappropriately.
He was fined £200, with £85 costs and a £34 surcharge.
Northumbria Police will apply for a football banning order, which the defendant opposes, and the issue will be back in court in July.
Asher was bailed to stay away from sporting venues in England and Wales in the meantime.
