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Arrests after 'homophobic and discriminatory' chanting at Wrexham's clash with Chelsea

Three men were arrested in connection with homophobic and racially aggravated public order offences

Arrests after Wrexham V Chelsea FA Cup match

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Three men were arrested in connection with homophobic and racially aggravated public order offences during Wrexham AFC's FA Cup Fifth Round fixture against Chelsea. It came after chanting of a homophobic and discriminatory nature was reported from within the ground on Saturday, 7 March.

Sion Yaxley, 29, of Pwllglas, Ruthin was subsequently charged with using threatening or abusive words or behaviour likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress.

Joshua Jones, 33, of Aspen Grange, Weston Rhyn, was also charged with using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour with intent to cause fear or provoke unlawful violence.

Another two arrests were made on the day in connection with drugs offences. Marc Garcia, 49, of Station Road North, Merstham and James Dance, 31, of Templeton Road, Hungerford, were subsequently charged with possessing a Class A drug.

All four men will appear before Wrexham Magistrates Court on 13 April.

A third man arrested in connection with a public order offence received a caution.

Superintendent Mark Williams said: “Chanting of a homophobic, racist or discriminatory nature is considered a hate crime, and all reports are taken seriously.

"We continue to work in partnership with Wrexham AFC to ensure supporters and their families visiting the StōK Cae Ras, and the wider community, feel safe to enjoy the football without having to witness criminal behaviour.”

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