Four Celtic fans jailed over shocking violence before 2024 cup final against Rangers
Andrew Campbell, John Devine and Thomas Slavin and Liam Coogans admitted being involved in the violent clashes which erupted before the 2024 League Cup final.
Four Celtic fans have been jailed and issued banning orders after violent clashes with Rangers supporters before the 2024 League Cup final. Andrew Campbell, John Devine and Thomas Slavin and Liam Coogans admitted being involved in the mob which brought chaos and fear to Glasgow city centre 10 days before Christmas.
Violence erupted after balaclava-clad groups of ultras confronted each other in the city centre hours before the Old Firm final on December 15, 2024. Christmas shoppers, tourists and children were forced to flee and take cover in nearby shops and cafes as "mass disorder" broke out.
Some premises locked their doors for the safety of customers and staff. Glasgow Sheriff Court heard how the men formed part of a disorderly crowd which repeatedly blocked the roadway for vehicles, engaged in a running fight with Rangers supporters, threw lit fireworks, bricks and bottles and placed the public in a state of fear and alarm.
Prosecutors told how the four accused were identified as participants in the football-related violence following detailed CCTV analysis and a public appeal for information. Campbell, 29, Devine, 28, and Slavin, 27, all from Glasgow, with Coogans, 29, from Larkhall, pled guilty to breaching the peace.
Campbell and Devine were each sentenced to 18 months in prison and banned from attending football matches for eight years. Coogans and Slavin were sentenced to a year each behind bars and were each banned from attending matches for four years.
In his judgment, Sheriff Andrew MacIntyre ruled the ban will not apply to Coogans when training or playing in a professional capacity. He started his career at Airdrie before moving to Huddersfield Town and Queen of the South.
Fraser Gibson, Procurator Fiscal for Glasgow and Strathkelvin, said: “These four men were part of a mob which caused horrifying scenes in Glasgow city centre. Innocent members of the public, including children, were exposed to football-related violence and disorder.
"Many were left terrified after what should have been a simple shopping trip. This is intolerable behaviour which brings shame to Scotland.
“These four men were part of a large-scale football-related crime on public streets. It should be understood that anyone who chooses to participate in football-related rioting can expect to be held accountable by COPFS.”
The mayhem broke out before the match which Celtic won 5-4 on penalties after a 3-3 draw.
News of their sentencing comes just two days after further violent scenes broke out in Glasgow city centre as Celtic fans gathered following their 3-1 win against Hearts on Saturday, May 18.
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