Ex-Player and Coach Joey Barton Convicted Over Offensive Social Media Posts
Former British footballer and coach Joey Barton was found guilty on six counts of sending offensive messages through social media. These posts targeted two former players and a broadcaster. However, Barton was cleared of an additional six charges.
Details of the Case
Barton, aged 43, faced charges related to posts sent in early 2024 to three individuals: former England international Eni Aluko, ex-player and pundit Lucy Ward, and BBC presenter Jeremy Vine.
Prosecutors stated that Barton’s messages “crossed the line between free speech and a crime.”
Background
- Barton played for clubs such as Manchester City and Queens Park Rangers.
- He coached Fleetwood Town and Bristol Rovers.
- Earlier this year, he was convicted of assaulting his wife.
- In 2024, Barton was ordered to pay damages to Jeremy Vine in a separate civil libel case.
Barton's Defense and Outcome
Barton claimed that his posts were meant to be provocative or "banter" and were not intended to cause distress or anxiety. Following the trial at Liverpool Crown Court, he was convicted on six counts and acquitted on six others.
Sentencing is scheduled for next month.
"The messages sent by Barton crossed the line between free speech and a crime."
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Author's Summary
Joey Barton was convicted for offensive social media posts targeting public figures, marking continued legal troubles in his post-football career.
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