Football supporter admits offensive Hillsborough post after fan’s death

A football supporter has admitted posting an offensive social media message referencing the Hillsborough disaster in the wake of the death of an opposing fan during a match.

Richard Crisp posted the message on X, formerly Twitter, following the death of West Brom fan Mark Townsend at Hillsborough stadium, in Sheffield, on September 28.

Sheffield Wednesday fan Crisp, 55, appeared at the city’s magistrates’ court on Monday where he admitted sending communications of an indecent or offensive nature.

Prosecutors said this was a reference to the 97 people who died following the crush at the Leppings Lane end of the ground in the 1989 Hillsborough disaster.

Crisp, of Lennox Road, Hillsborough, Sheffield, was bailed ahead of his sentencing on January 24.

The defendant stood in the dock during the 10-minute hearing wearing a blue suit, white shirt and green tie.

Rob Coyne, prosecuting, said there was more than one post involved, but he read only one out in court on Monday.

He agreed that a pre-sentence report was needed before the defendant can be sentenced.

Crisp’s post caused outrage, especially among West Brom fans, many of whom had witnessed distressing scenes in the stands after Mr Townsend was taken ill during the Championship clash.

Sheffield Wednesday responded to the post by issuing Crisp with a lifetime ban.

“Our thoughts remain with the loved ones of Mr Townsend and the wider West Bromwich Albion community at this incredibly difficult time.”

Construction firm Wates Group later issued a statement which said: “We can confirm that Richard Crisp is no longer employed by the Wates Group.

“The comments he made over the weekend are unacceptable and completely at odds with our values as a company.”

And Hillsborough Golf Club followed this with a similar statement announcing that Crisp was no longer a member.

Crisp said he did not want to say anything “at this stage” as he left court on Monday.