Sheffield Wednesday fan Dale Houghton is facing the consequences after mocking late Sunderland fan Bradley Lowery, who died aged 6 of a rare brain cancer in 2017, with a suitably karmic list of repercussions since being arrested.
Houghton, 31, thought it would funny to taunt Sunderland supporters at a recent game by holding up a photo of a smiling Bradley on his phone, which he later described to police as a “enjoyable banter” that “went too far.”
Houghton tested positive for cocaine after his arrest and has since lost his job as a window fitter. He was given bail on condition that he does not attend regulated football grounds in the UK, does not go within a mile of Hillsborough Stadium on Sheffield Wednesday match-days and completes a drug intervention course. Police have also applied for a football banning order from stadiums, meaning this prat will never be able to attend a football game again.
Houghton admitted to a public order offence at Sheffield Magistrates’ Court this week, and will be sentenced in November after admitting one count of intentionally causing harassment, alarm or distress by displaying any writing, sign or other visible representation, which is threatening, abusive or insulting.
He’s also in danger of being banned from every pub in his village after being kicked off his football and cricket teams in Wickersley. He played for Joker Wickersley Youth CC (football) and Wickersley Old Village CC. In a statement the Blades Super Draw Premier Division side said: “Joker Wickersley Youth CC, Wickersley OVCC, our committee, players and all involved with the club do not condone the behaviour of the people in question in any way, shape or form. The player has been banned from playing for us indefinitely.”
Staff at the Masons Arms have also confirmed that Houghton is no longer allowed on the premises. One Masons Arms employee said: “He’s no longer welcome here at the Masons Arms and I believe at the next Pubwatch meeting, going forward I’m pretty sure it will be brought up in that – he might not be allowed in pubs in the Wickersley area.”
The whole sorry saga has led to something more positive, though, with Sheffield Wednesday fans raising over £25,000 for the Bradley Lowery Foundation. Owls fan Leanne Wood set up a fundraising page for the charity – which was formed by Bradley’s family in order to help other children suffering from neuroblastoma.
Sunderland legend Jermaine Defoe also had his say on the matter, telling MailOnline:
“I’m appalled and saddened by the actions of the individual in question. My thoughts at this time go out to Gemma and Carl, Bradley’s parents, who shouldn’t have to deal with incidents like this, but rather be praised for the amazing work they are doing with the Bradley Lowery Foundation in their son’s memory. I urge the public to stand behind the family and continue to support the foundation and its projects. Bradley was one of the most inspirational children this world has ever seen, and he will never stop inspiring us. We love and miss you Brad. Love, your best friend forever.”
Houghton’s brother, pictured laughing beside him in the image, was also arrested and released on bail. Fair to say these boys fully regret their actions that day, but it beggars belief that anyone, let alone a 31-year-old man, could possibly think that was funny or OK to do. Even coked up off his brain at a football match. Now he’s looking at jail time, unemployment, stadium bans, pub bans, and will have to look over his shoulder on the street for a very long time. You live and you learn.
To meet the man who got a Stone Island tattoo during a drunken night out, click HERE. Almost as regrettable.
