Police chief Michael Grace has issued a ‘zero tolerance’ alert to tens of thousands of Tartan Army who are preparing to cross the Atlantic to cheer on the national side.
A top police officer in Boston has issued a warning to Scotland fans that they will be turned away if they turn up too drunk to World Cup fixtures.
Michael Grace has issued the ‘zero tolerance’ alert to tens of thousands of Tartan Army who are preparing to cross the Atlantic to cheer on the national side. The police chief said that, while the US can’t wait to welcome the famous footsoldiers to the States, those who knock back too many beers will be locked out.
Eagle-eyed cops will be on the look out for problem fans who stagger up looking worse for wear ahead of Scotland’s opener against Haiti and the Morocco clash at the Gillette Stadium. He said: “We are really looking forward to hosting a Scotland support we’ve heard so many good things about, but naturally there are some watch-outs.
“The main message is to be responsible. What we have learnt over many years hosting events at the stadium is that if you can’t handle yourself getting to the gate, you just become a problem inside. If you’re walking up and your two friends are having to carry you, you should be embarrassed. You’ve failed as an adult.
“If you are already past the point of intoxication, shame on you. We want you to have fun but don’t go beyond that line because you simply won’t get in. Boston Stadium is not public property, it is private property. So if you’re asked to leave and you fail to leave, you are subject to arrest. It’s fairly straightforward.”
The police chief went on to explain that even those who do get inside will face a no-nonsense approach from staff. He told The Sunday Times: “The venue also has a liquor licence, which makes them responsible for overserving. One of the biggest steps they take to make sure they’re not liable for overserving is not to let someone in who’s already past that point.
“Otherwise they become a liability on their licence. If you’re really intoxicated, they won’t serve you. Everybody serving food and beverages in the stadium is well trained to spot those signs. You’re not going to get away with it – so don’t risk it.”
Grace went on to praise the footie-mad Scots who planned their adventures well in advance. He added: “The Scottish fans appear to be the most organised so far – and that’s a real compliment. There is obviously excitement around their team and the whole experience of following them.
“These fans are way ahead of the curve on where they’re staying, what they’re doing, where they want to go, how they’re going to show up at the stadium. The intel we have is that they bring energy, but they’re not here to cause a problem. They’re here to enjoy the people’s game.
“We welcome them and we’re going to open up a great experience that allows them to be those great ambassadors for their country while they are here.”
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