Welsh Club Says They Learned of Midfielder’s Cocaine Conviction 30 Minutes After Sentencing
Barry Town Claims They Were Unaware of Midfielder Evan Press’ Cocaine Conviction Until After Sentencing
Welsh football club Barry Town has stated they were unaware of midfielder Evan Press’ conviction for dealing cocaine until 30 minutes after his sentencing.
The 24-year-old was sentenced to two years and six months in prison at Newport Crown Court after pleading guilty to being concerned in the supply of Class A drug cocaine. His involvement in drug dealing spanned from February 2021 to November 2023 in Cardiff.
Despite his guilty plea on February 11, Press continued playing for Barry Town, featuring in three matches before his sentencing on March 19. The club, a semi-professional side in the Welsh top flight, insists they had no knowledge of his legal issues until a family member informed them following his sentencing.
Club Reacts to Shocking News
A Barry Town spokesperson told WalesOnline:
“Being brutally honest, we only heard about this on the day he was sentenced. He had never told us. We were unaware until half an hour after the sentencing when we were contacted by a family member.”
The club, which prides itself on fostering role models, expressed shock at the news, acknowledging Press’ contributions over his seven-year tenure. Since joining in 2018, he has made 187 appearances, scored 11 goals, and captained the team 19 times this season.
Legal Consequences
In addition to his prison term, Press has been ordered to pay a £190 victim services surcharge. Barry Town will now be without one of their key players as they come to terms with the unexpected development.
Welsh Club Says They Learned of Midfielder’s Cocaine Conviction 30 Minutes After Sentencing