A football fan has been sent to prison after a reckless act of violence during a match left a player from his own team with a head injury. Joshua Smith, 28, threw a plastic seat from the stands which struck Leyton Orient defender Tom James, causing a significant wound that required medical treatment.
The Incident at Brisbane Road
The disturbing event unfolded on Saturday, 28 October 2023, during a League One fixture between Leyton Orient and Lincoln City at the Breyer Group Stadium, commonly known as Brisbane Road. The match was paused in the 82nd minute after the object was launched from the home supporters' section.
Joshua Smith, of Waltham Abbey, Essex, was identified as the perpetrator. He was swiftly arrested and later charged with assault by beating and throwing a missile onto the pitch. The court heard that the plastic seat struck Tom James on the head, resulting in a cut that needed attention from the club's medical staff.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
Smith appeared at Thames Magistrates' Court on Friday, where he pleaded guilty to both charges. In addition to the immediate custodial sentence of 22 weeks, the magistrates imposed a football banning order. This order will prohibit Smith from attending any regulated football matches in the United Kingdom for a period of seven years.
The presiding magistrate emphasised the seriousness of the offence, stating that such behaviour poses a direct threat to safety and has no place in the sport. The sentence reflects a growing judicial intolerance for violence and disorder at football grounds.
Club and Football Association Response
Leyton Orient Football Club issued a strong statement condemning Smith's actions in the strongest possible terms. The club confirmed it had cooperated fully with the Metropolitan Police throughout the investigation and will now proceed with its own internal banning process against the individual.
The incident was also reviewed by the Football Association. While the governing body acknowledged the court's ruling, it highlighted the ongoing work being done alongside clubs and authorities to tackle anti-social behaviour and ensure stadiums remain safe environments for players, staff, and genuine supporters.
Player Tom James received treatment on the pitch and was able to complete the match, which Leyton Orient went on to win 1-0. However, the club noted the psychological impact such an unexpected attack can have on a professional athlete during their work.
This case serves as a stark warning to a small minority of so-called fans that violent conduct will be met with severe legal consequences, including lengthy prison sentences and extended bans from the beautiful game.
