THE MAN IN charge of health and safety at the Hillsborough stadium on the day that 96 football fans died has been fined £6,500 – just under £68 per death, just over 30 years later.
Graham Mackrell was the stadium safety officer, and he was accused of allowing the match to go ahead with only seven turnstiles open for the 10,000-strong crowd to go through – so few that it was inevitable that crowds would build up to dangerous levels. Judge Sir Peter Openshaw commented that this amounted to an “obvious risk”. However, the Judge also ruled that although Mackrell’s negligence led to a crush immediately outside the ground, it did not cause the crush inside the ground which led to the fatalities. It “set the scene” for the crush inside the ground, but did not cause it. Mackrell later released a statement saying that he was “grateful” that the judge had realised that he had not contributed to any death or injury. He expressed his sympathy for the victims and their families, but did not apologise for his actions on the day.
The penalty was based on what the law allowed at the time of the offence. It has since been updated, so anyone repeating the same mistake today could face a prison sentence. As well as the fine, Mackrell will also have to pay £5,000 towards the prosecution’s legal costs.
Families and friends of those killed and injured were disappointed by the Judge’s comments. It was the build up of crowds outside the seven turnstiles which led to the decision to open the exit gates – which then caused fans to rush in, causing the crush inside the ground.
Most were also very bitter about the level of the fine, with Louise Brookes, who lost her brother that day, describing it as less than the cost of a week’s grocery shopping. They were also concerned that after the incident Mackrell went on to enjoy a well paid career at the Club and in football: many said he should have been sacked.
Eight individuals provided character references for Mackrell – including former Labour MP Roy Hattersley, now Baron Hattersley. In contrast, Labour MP Steve Rotherham was championed the cause of the relatives and been a key figure supporting their fight for justice.
The penalty in Mackrell’s case was handed down at Preston Crown Court, after an eleven week trial which saw Mackrell convicted on 3rd April. Mackrell was joined on trial by David Duckenfield, 74, who was charged with gross negligence manslaughter. Duckenfield was freed, as the jury was unable to agree on a verdict. Lawyers are still prevaricating over whether there will be a retrial in his case.
•To see our extensive coverage of the Hillsborough tragedy, click here: Hillsborough coverage