Twelve Men Face Manslaughter Charges in Tragic Death of Football Fan Simon Dobbin
In a significant legal development, twelve men have been formally charged with manslaughter in connection with the death of Cambridge United supporter Simon Dobbin. The charges stem from a violent assault that occurred after a football match in 2015, which left Mr. Dobbin with permanent brain damage and ultimately led to his death five years later.
Details of the Assault and Its Aftermath
Simon Dobbin, a 48-year-old married father and former RAF serviceman, was attacked on March 21, 2015, after watching his team, Cambridge United, play against Southend United in Southend, Essex. The violence erupted outside the Railway Tavern pub, resulting in severe injuries that caused permanent brain damage. Mr. Dobbin required 24-hour care at his home in Mildenhall, Suffolk, provided by his family until his death in October 2020.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
On Wednesday, Essex Police announced that the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) had authorized manslaughter charges against twelve individuals. Rebecca Mundy, deputy chief crown prosecutor, stated that prosecutors in the Complex Casework Unit collaborated closely with Essex Police to review evidence from both the initial incident and Mr. Dobbin's subsequent death. She confirmed that sufficient evidence exists to proceed with charges, deeming it in the public interest.
The twelve men charged are: Greg Allen, 37, of Westcliff-on-Sea; Ryan Carter, 40, of HMP The Mount; Jamie Chambers, 33, of Southend-on-Sea; Lewis Courtnell, 43, of Leigh-on-Sea; Philip McGill, 40, of Westcliff-on-Sea; Scott Nicholls, 49, of Basildon; Matthew Petchey, 35, of Rochford; Rhys Pullen, 29, of Maldon; Thomas Randall, 31, of Leigh-on-Sea; Michael Shawyer, 40, of Leigh-on-Sea; Alexander Woods, 33, of Westcliff-on-Sea; and James Woods, 33, of Westcliff-on-Sea.
Police and Family Statements
Detective Superintendent Stephen Jennings of Essex Police highlighted the complexity of the investigation, praising the dedication and hard work of the officers involved. He emphasized the emotional nature of the case and urged the public to refrain from commentary to ensure a fair trial for the accused. Mr. Jennings also expressed gratitude to Mr. Dobbin's family, including his wife Nicole and daughter Emily, for their patience and support throughout the investigation.
The men are scheduled to appear before Colchester Magistrates' Court on March 31, marking a pivotal step in seeking justice for Simon Dobbin and his loved ones.
