A Sheffield Wednesday supporter has been handed a three-year football banning order after displaying a message mocking the death of former Sheffield United player George Baldock. Brandon Pedryc, 23, typed 'Where's Baldock' on his phone and waved it at opposing fans during the Steel City derby at Bramall Lane on 11 November.
Sheffield Magistrates' Court heard that the message referred to the death of Baldock, 31, who died in Greece a month earlier. District Judge Marcus Waite described the act as a 'moment of madness' and noted 'significant upset caused'. The judge accepted Pedryc's claim that he was reacting to being pelted with coins and a bottle, and being spat on by United fans.
The court was told that Pedryc approached a police officer within an hour of the incident after realising the message had gone viral. He told officers it was 'a sick joke, nothing more' and intended only to 'wind up' opposition fans. The judge acknowledged Pedryc's remorse, citing a lengthy letter submitted to the court.
Defence lawyer Alex Nolan stated that Pedryc had lost his £30,000 job as a result of his actions, though he has since found other work. Pedryc admitted to displaying threatening or abusive writing likely to cause harassment, alarm, or distress. In addition to the banning order, he was fined £300 and ordered to pay £250 in costs and surcharges.
