Here in Alabama,laws have been passed to protect officials,umpires,etc. The laws cover physical contact and threats made to officials before,during and after a game.My question is what damages can you seek ( monetary and/or jail time or probation) for infractions made by individuals who take it too far. The reason I am asking is that I know an official who was doing a rec league game and was told that he needed to find another way home because if he went to the parking lot,he would not make it out. I worked with this official a few nights ago so obviously he made it out okay.He did not have a very good night with me (3 more rec league games)and when I asked him at haltime of the second game what was wrong, he told me what I have typed above.I basically listened to him and would see if I could find out anything for him. He said that there were some witnesses who heard the exchange and tried to calm the player down(he T'd him after his remark also).He said he may give up officiating but he is too valuable ( 9 years officiating) and he needs the money from calling sports. Any suggestions or laws in any other states that are similar or what course of action he could take?

[Edited by dsimp8 on Feb 26th, 2003 at 11:35 AM]

Your friend should carry a cell phone, often the "tough guys" will disappear once they realize you're on the phone with the cops.

Also sounds like your friend needs to pick the leagues he works a little better.

When such threats are made, the authorities should be called at once. When the game is over, identify the offender, and inform the authorities what happened. I'm pretty sure it will be the last threat the player ever makes.

Three days later is probably a little late to pursue anything. Address it when it happens.

It's great to recognize the special needs that sports officials sometimes have, but laws already exist for assault, uttering threats, harrassment, unlawful confinement, etc. I cannot think of a post-game incident involving officials that would not be covered by existing laws.

I always have my cell phone with me, when I am doing rec league. During High school games (Varsity) at least you law enforcement official is present.
During a rec league game a few years ago, a fellow official was threatened by a player. It just so happened that one of the teams playing that night was made up of local troopers and police. Player was escorted out of the gym, and official was asked to file a complaint, and after the official was finished for the night, the troopers made sure that a car was outside visible for all to see.
Bottom line, do not be afraid to notify the police.

AK ref SE

Back in '93 I was working a rec tournament with my father. After a semi final game, a player off the losing team came into the office that we used as a changing room. He was mad about losing the game and laid my dad out! Thanks to the wonderful police here in Champaign, they got him and he spend time in jail! Tell your friend that most of these guys are nothing but blow hard jerks. I have been told that many times and I still go back for more. I would file a complaint with the local police. This is a game. If they want to be jerks, stick it to them.

Rec league games and confrontations
 

I agree with the above responses. Keep a cell phone handy and notify the authorities. However, I must confess that my last adult rec league outting, some 5 years ago, the team and players who were totally out of line where a team made up of local city and county law enforcement officiers. I ended the game with 4 minutes remaining after a fight, which they started, several ejections and then threats against my safety on the way out of the gym. One of the players/officiers actually gave me the cut throat sign as I drove away (slowly pulling finger across throat). I simply left without further confrontation. In this case, you reallly have a problem. Calling in the authorities will be calling more of their buddies. Who they going to believe, you or them.

Re: Rec league games and confrontations
 

Someone needed a doughnut. http://www.stopstart.freeserve.co.uk/smilie/togo.gif

Peace

Re: Re: Rec league games and confrontations
 

Jeff -- I like your smilie with a 'fro!! Too cute for words!

You have to remember there are two parts to the legal system. civil and criminal...
Criminal-call the police and get it documented...
Civil -consult an attorney--- there can be damages especially on intentional torts like assault and battery...