Club and 'number of individuals' referred to independent disciplinary commission
The English Football League has charged Rochdale AFC and a “number of other individuals” with alleged breaches of EFL regulations and will now refer the matters to an independent disciplinary commission.
An EFL statement said: “Following the conclusion of an investigation into the acquisition of shares in Rochdale AFC by Morton House, the EFL has charged the Club and a number of other individuals with alleged breaches of EFL Regulations.”
It added: “The EFL has been considering whether the Club, any Official, any Relevant Person(s) and/or any other Persons involved complied with the requirements of the Regulations in respect of the acquisition of shares in the Club in July 2021.”
The statement said the EFL had determined there was sufficient evidence to justify issuing various charges of misconduct.
The multiple matters will now be referred to an Independent Disciplinary Commission, which is usually made up of lawyers, barristers and accountants.
HY Solicitors is representing a Rochdale AFC supporters group, as well as eight members of the club’s board, in a High Court legal action brought by Morton House.
Morton House alleges that that the Dale Supporters Trust and the board have unlawfully caused prejudice to Morton House as a shareholder in RAFC. The Dale Trust and the board “strenuously deny” the allegations.