The bloke who was caught on camera nibbling a child’s ear at the World Snooker Championships is reportedly an Italian tourist named Stefano Voci, 43.
He defended his actions, which took place at The Crucible in Sheffield city centre and caused outrage among viewers watching seven-time World Snooker Championships winner Stephen Hendry analyse a live match.
It has now been revealed that the child is related to Mr Voci. The Italian national, who works as a forklift truck operator, took to social media to explain his actions, saying it was a normal way of showing affection towards a loved one.
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He wrote: “There are many clarifications to make but everything is in process. I was just someone sharing love and affection like anyone else, that was exposed maliciously.”
(Image: BBC)
South Yorkshire Police had been investigating the incident but have since concluded their probe, stating “officers have determined no crime has been committed”.
In his post, Mr Voci, who was visiting relatives in Sheffield from his home near Milan, identified his relationship with the boy, which we are not disclosing to protect the youngster’s identity.
“My family are fine and closer than ever, I don’t care that my face is all over social media with photomontages and fake posts. Just leave my family alone. God bless you all and best wishes to you all,” stated Mr Voci.
The footage captured in April showed the boy noticing he was on camera, reacting with a smile and wave as the man retracted from the frame.
On realising he was being recorded, Mr Voci couldn’t help but let out a broad grin and bob his head entertainingly. South Yorkshire Police said earlier this week: “Following review of the video, officers have determined no crime has been committed and the investigation has been filed.”
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