Joey Barton Found Guilty in Offensive Tweets Trial
Joey Barton has been found guilty of six counts of sending grossly offensive electronic communications with intent to cause distress or anxiety. The former England footballer was convicted for posting offensive messages on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Trial Details
Barton, who played for Manchester City, QPR, and Newcastle, faced 12 charges related to offensive tweets about female football commentators Lucy Ward and Eni Aluko, as well as broadcaster Jeremy Vine. The jury at Liverpool Crown Court returned the verdicts after two and a half hours of deliberation.
Verdict Breakdown
- Guilty of six counts overall.
- Two counts related to offensive messages sent to Eni Aluko and Lucy Ward.
- Four counts related to offensive messages sent to Jeremy Vine.
- Cleared of six similar charges — three related to the female commentators and three related to Jeremy Vine.
Sentencing and Courtroom Notes
Barton appeared impassive when the verdicts were announced. Wearing a Union Jack-style scarf, he was told by Judge Andrew Menary that all sentencing options remained open. Barton is scheduled to be sentenced on December 8, following a pre-sentence report.
"He has chosen to adorn himself with a particular flag which I suppose is a stunt to make a point." — Judge Andrew Menary
Barton, 43, was standing trial for sending offensive tweets targeting women football commentators and a broadcaster.
Author's summary: Joey Barton was convicted of six counts of sending offensive tweets aimed at football commentators and a broadcaster, with sentencing set for December 8.