Twelve men have been charged with manslaughter in connection with the death of football fan Simon Dobbin, who died five years after being assaulted in Southend.
Mr Dobbin, a Cambridge United supporter and former RAF serviceman, was attacked on his way home from a match in 2020. He suffered permanent brain damage and required round-the-clock care from his family until his death.
Essex Police said he was subjected to a sustained and violent attack. The Crown Prosecution Service has authorised manslaughter charges against the twelve men, who are due to appear at Colchester Magistrates' Court on 31 March.
Detective Superintendent Stephen Jennings described the charging as a significant milestone in a complex investigation, praising officers for their painstaking work. He also thanked Simon's wife Nicole and daughter Emily for their patience and support, while urging the public to avoid commentary that could prejudice a fair trial.
Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor Rebecca Mundy confirmed that prosecutors had established sufficient evidence to charge the twelve individuals and that it was in the public interest to proceed. She reminded all concerned that the defendants have a right to a fair trial and that no reporting or online sharing of information should prejudice the proceedings.
