Hillsborough families celebrate as match commander David Duckenfield faces 95 counts of MANSLAUGHTER while ex-police chief Sir Norman Bettison vows to ‘vigorously defend’ his innocence over stadium tragedy

‘Families of the 96 victims of the Hillsborough disaster applauded and punched the air today as their three-decade campaign for justice saw criminal charges brought against six people – including a police chief who faces 95 counts of manslaughter.
Retired David Duckenfield, 72, who was the match day commander during the 1989 FA Cup semi final between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest FC, is to be prosecuted over the deaths of 95 men, women and children 28 years ago. Neighbours suggested today he may have flown to Portugal on holiday before the decision was announced.
He is to be charged with the manslaughter by gross negligence of 95 of the 96 disaster victims, with the CPS unable to charge the manslaughter of Anthony Bland, the 96th casualty, because he died almost four years later.
Former South Yorkshire Police Chief Inspector Sir Norman Bettison is being prosecuted over alleged lies in the aftermath of the tragedy, while two other officers, a solicitor for the force and Sheffield Wednesday FC’s safety officer at the time are also charged with offences.’
Read more: Hillsborough families celebrate as match commander David Duckenfield faces 95 counts of MANSLAUGHTER while ex-police chief Sir Norman Bettison vows to ‘vigorously defend’ his innocence over stadium tragedy