No charges against football police

No charges will be brought against police officers accused of attacking football fans during violent clashes before a match.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has decided there is insufficient evidence to warrant charges despite claims from Cardiff City fans that they were assaulted by officers from West Yorkshire Police.

The alleged attacks occurred on 9 April 2002 as Cardiff supporters made their way to the match with Huddersfield.

Police made 21 arrests at the division two game but charges against nine Cardiff fans were later dropped.

Internal investigation

In November last year, West Yorkshire Police launched an internal investigation into complaints from around 20 visiting fans.

Neil Franklin, of the CPS, said: "Allegations made against police officers are taken extremely seriously and receive very close consideration.

"A full review of the file provided to us was carried out.

"However the case did not meet the requirements of the evidential test which states that there must be sufficient evidence for 'a realistic prospect of a conviction'.

"Therefore we are obliged to recommend no further action in this case."

A statement from West Yorkshire Police said: "We note the CPS decision and consideration will now be given to the disciplinary aspects."