Simon Brodkin – aka Jason Bent
A COMEDIAN who duped security at a Premier League match between Everton and Manchester City and warmed up alongside star players escaped prosecution today.
Simon Brodkin, 35, was given a conditional caution at North Liverpool Community Justice Centre following the stunt ahead of the game at Goodison Park on March 16.
He spoke to the waiting press afterwards still in character. The video below contains material that some people may find offensive
Brodkin, from north London, had dressed as one of his characters, footballer Jason Bent to blend in with players ahead of (Free £25 bet offer) Kick-off
The qualified doctor, who has his own sketch show on BBC Three, was later charged with going on to the playing area, contrary to the Football Offences Act.
But at his court appearance today, Julian Peers, for the prosecution, invited District Judge Ian Lomax to take an “alternative course to prosecution”.
The judge agreed to the charge being withdrawn and Brodkin was issued with a six-month conditional caution.
Raymond Shaw, defending, told the court that Brodkin wanted to apologise and regretted his actions.
He said: “It was intended to be a humorous act and intended to be funny.
“It is clear from the television footage that some of the players were amused but he didn’t know it was a criminal offence.
“He expressed his remorse immediately when he was spoken to by the club and the police and he does so again now.”
The Jason Bent character is Brodkin’s take on the bling lifestyle enjoyed by professional footballers.
Mr Shaw said Brodkin was a Manchester City fan and had “no wish to see a football game disrupted”.
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