Source: Daily_Mail
West Ham in the clear over riot, but bans won't solve problem, say police
West Ham will not be thrown out of the Carling Cup or have to play behind closed doors, despite the violence during Tuesday's victory against Millwall.
But banning thugs from grounds is not enough to stamp out violence in the game, according to the Metropolitan Police Federation.
The organisation, which represents the 26,000 police officers in London, said promises by West Ham and Millwall to stop anyone found responsible for the violence from watching their club again does not send out a strong enough signal.
'Banning individuals from football grounds would not sufficiently reinforce the message that violence of the type seen at Upton Park will not be tolerated,' said a Federation spokesman.
'Much better to force the clubs to play matches behind closed gates or impose massive points deductions.
'At a time when public order policing is under the media spotlight, we hope recognition is given to the bravery and professionalism of the officers who defied attacks on them to protect decent, honest fans.'
As West Ham launched their own investigation yesterday, chief executive Scott Duxbury said: 'We will leave no stone unturned.'
