Twelve men have been charged with manslaughter following the death of Simon Dobbin in Southend-on-Sea, Essex. The Essex Police announced the decision on February 11, 2026, after a long investigation into an assault that took place over a decade ago. Mr Dobbin, a Cambridge United supporter, was left with permanent brain damage after an unprovoked attack following a football match on March 21, 2015.
Mr Dobbin died on October 21, 2020, at the age of 48. Forensic experts and medical professionals have since established that his death was a direct result of the injuries sustained during the attack outside the Railway Tavern. This led the Crown Prosecution Service to upgrade the investigation to a homicide case, applying the principle of causation.
The 12 men charged were among those previously convicted of violent disorder in 2017 regarding the same incident. Rebecca Mundy, Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor, stated that there is sufficient evidence to bring these new charges forward and that the legal action is necessary for the public interest. The case is expected to lead to further court proceedings at Chelmsford or the Old Bailey, and a continued police presence in the community.
Simon Dobbin was a former RAF serviceman who was unable to walk or talk for five years before his death. His widow, Nicole Dobbin, welcomed the news of the charges and has campaigned for justice since the original assault. Residents may see more media attention and police enquiries in the area as the legal process continues.
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