Welsh professional snooker player Michael White, 33, has been sentenced to three years in prison after being convicted of multiple domestic violence offences. The assaults occurred over a period of more than a year, according to South Wales Police.
In response to the conviction, the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA) announced that White, from Neath Abbey in South Wales, has been expelled from the association. He has also been removed from the world ranking list and the World Snooker Tour.
PC Ellen Green of South Wales Police stated, “Michael White has rightfully been jailed after he carried out assaults on his victim on many occasions, leaving them with injuries. Tackling violence against women and girls is a priority for us at South Wales Police. Nobody should suffer in silence – this behaviour will not be tolerated.”
The WPBSA released a statement emphasizing their zero-tolerance policy towards such behaviour: “The WPBSA does not tolerate such behaviour by a member and has taken immediate action to remove Michael White as a member of the WPBSA. Upon his sentence, the WPBSA convened an emergency board meeting and passed a resolution to cease Michael White’s membership with immediate effect. Consequently, he will be removed from the world ranking list and World Snooker Tour. Michael White has the right to appeal the decision of the board within 21 days of the decision.”