Tough streaker law exposed during World Cup

A streaker from the match between Argentina and England at Otago Stadium on Saturday has been granted diversion. Photo / Getty Images

The first streaker of the Rugby World Cup has been granted police diversion, despite the introduction of a tough new law.

The 23-year-old Dunedin man who ran naked onto the field during the England-Argentina game at Otago Stadium on Saturday was charged under the Major Events Management Act.

The act says any unauthorised entry on to a pitch can result in a jail sentence of up to three months, or a fine up of to $5000.

Before the start of the RWC 2011, tournament organisers and police warned that anyone running onto the field would feel the full weight of the new legislation.

However, Dunedin police area commander Inspector Dave Campbell said yesterday that police were still obliged to consider diversion when certain criteria were met.

Anyone arrested during the cup was eligible for consideration for diversion if they were a first-time offender, admitted their offending, showed remorse and agreed to make reparation to the victim or community. The case on Saturday met those criteria, he said.

The condition of the man's diversion was that he make a donation to a charity. Mr Campbell declined to reveal the amount of the donation although it is believed to be about $500. He did not know if the donation had been paid.

The man, who has been granted interim name suppression until the diversion is completed, yesterday declined to comment.

A decision about whether he will be banned from attending future matches is up to Rugby World Cup 2011.

- OTAGO DAILY TIMES