NFL Cracks Down On Violent Fans, Expands Disciplinary Policy To Include All 32 Teams
SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) — A lawsuit filed by two San Francisco 49ers fans that were beaten and shot after last year's preseason game against the Raiders is just part of the fallout from what seems to an increase in fan violence.
This year, the National Football League is now requiring all fans that get kicked out of a game to complete a four-hour course in how to not be disruptive and how to be a better fan. In addition they pay around a $100 fine.
The program started last year with eight teams, but now includes all 32 NFL teams, including Oakland and San Francisco.
KCBS' Holly Quan Reports:
Ray Di Nunzio, the NFL's director of strategic security, talked about the implications on certain fans.
"They're banned from the stadium. For example if they're a season ticket holder they lose their season tickets and their private seat license is suspended," Di Nunzio said.
Single ticket holders who are kicked out will be photographed. Facial recognition technology is being used to make sure they don't get in again.
Dr. Ari Novick is a Southern California anger management specialist who has been working with the NFL and designed the course which addresses alcohol awareness, good sportsmanship and behavioral limitations.
"When you have fans that are shooting people or behaving so violently; I mean these are people that need serious help," Novick said.
About 7,000 people were ejected from NFL stadiums last season, according to officials.
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