Crackdown sought on fans who run on field during Florida sporting events

Proposal filed by former FSU star Corey Simon

File photo. (AP Photo/Karl B DeBlaker) (Karl B Deblaker, Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Fans who run onto the field during sporting events, try to hit players or coaches or hurl objects into games could face first-degree misdemeanor charges, under a measure filed Tuesday by Sen. Corey Simon (R-Tallahassee).

Simon filed the proposal (SB 764), which would also apply to other entertainment venues, for consideration during the legislative session that will start March 7.

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A similar measure (HB 319) was filed last month by Rep. Taylor Yarkosky (R-Montverde).

The proposal by Simon, who was an All-American defensive tackle at Florida State University before playing eight years in the National Football League, said fans could face first-degree misdemeanor charges, which carry up to a year in jail and fines up to $2,500, if they “knowingly enter or remain unlawfully upon the covered area of a sporting or entertainment event.”

The same charge could be applied for throwing objects on the field or attempting to strike players or coaches.

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Also, the bill would seek to prevent people from benefiting financially from such actions.


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