Prefer Jewish News on Google
West Ham fans charged with antisemitic abuse on flight
Two men accused of directing chants towards a passenger in Orthodox Jewish dress on a flight from Stansted to Eindhoven in the Netherlands last year
Two West Ham fans have appeared before a crown court judge, accused of racially aggravated harassment while en route to a match in Europe.
Lee Carey, 56, and 31-year-old Jak Bruce are accused of directing chants towards a man in Orthodox Jewish dress on a flight from Stansted Airport to Eindhoven in the Netherlands on November 4 last year.
Essex Police said the pair were travelling to a game against Belgian side Genk.
Carey, of Romford, east London, and Bruce, of Dartford, Kent, were not asked to enter a plea during a brief hearing at Chelmsford Crown Court.
At an earlier hearing at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court, both men indicated they would deny the alleged public order offence.
The defendants, who are both on bail, appeared at Tuesday’s hearing by video-link and each spoke only to confirm their identity.
Judge David Turner QC adjourned the case until May 17 for the prosecution to consider whether it has jurisdiction.
Keep community journalism free.
Jewish News is free for everyone. No paywall. No barriers. Just trusted journalism for anyone who wants to stay connected to Jewish life in Britain.
If you value that, please support us.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help keep our journalism free and accessible to all.
Every day, we report on the issues that matter to our community. We celebrate achievements, support charities, challenge antisemitism and ensure Jewish voices are heard more widely.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help us continue to:
- Report on the stories shaping Jewish life in the UK and beyond
- Bring our community together through shared stories, events and campaigns
- Celebrate the people, culture and moments that define our community
- Support organisations doing vital work across Jewish Britain
You can make a one-off donation or become a regular supporter. Every contribution helps keep our journalism free, independent and accessible to all.
If everyone who values Jewish News gave a small amount, it would make a real difference to our future.
