PC Billy Sampson of South Yorkshire Police was found dead in Chapeltown, Leeds on Wednesday.

Mr Sampson, 27, was due to appear in Leeds Crown Court on March 7th after he was charged with unlawfully wounding a 16-year-old Sheffield Wednesday fan after their game against Barnsley FC at Oakwell Stadium.

The officer denied the charge and the police have treated his death as not suspicious.

A spokesperson for South Yorkshire Police has said in tribute: “We are incredibly saddened by news of Billy’s death. Our thoughts remain with Billy’s family and loved ones and they will be offered our full support.”