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Sunday, 18 September 2022

YouTube Prankster Convicted of Aggravated Trespass After International Cricket Stunt

A YouTube prankster has been convicted of aggravated trespass after invading a cricket pitch during an international match.

Daniel Jarvis, 34, of Gravesend, Kent, was convicted of aggravated trespass after a trial at Croydon Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, 14th September 2022.

Aggravated trespass is an offence under section 68(1) of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994. The maximum penalty on summary conviction is 3 months' custody and/or a fine at level 4 (currently £2,500 maximum).

The offence in question took place on Friday, 3rd September 2021, when England were playing India at The Oval, south London, on day two of the fourth international Test match in the series.

The court viewed television and social media footage of Jarvis running up to the wicket and colliding with England player Jonny Bairstow.

The prosecution also presented videos of him invading the pitch at two previous cricket matches between England and India, at Lord's on 12th August and at Headingly on 25th August.

Jarvis, who was unrepresented, denied the offence, claiming that he could not be trespassing as he had a ticket to enter the ground. He also denied any intention to disrupt the match, despite having filmed his preparations in a toilet cubical beforehand.

During cross-examination, prosecutor Nicola Grindey said: "You know when going on to an international cricket field they can't continue to play while you're on there. You had the cricket ball because your intention was to run on and effectively bowl the ball towards the wicket.

"When you ran out you could see one of the England players in full batting gear - you ran into him. You knew you weren't allowed on the pitch because you have been on cricket pitches before and been asked to leave."

Jarvis claimed that he had accidentally made contact with Mr Bairstow.

Having considering matters, District Judge Daniel Benjamin was sure that Jarvis had committed the offence.

Announcing his decision, the District Judge said: "The issue in the case is straight forward, namely whether he intended to disrupt the Test match."

He concluded this was Jarvis's intention, adding: "I find Mr Jarvis guilty of aggravated trespass."

District Judge Benjamin ordered the preparation of a pre-sentence report and adjourned sentencing until Wednesday, 19th October 2022.

Jarvis was granted unconditional bail until then.

Another YouTube attention seeker. Just what the world needs.

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