Former professional footballer Joey Barton has been convicted for sending grossly offensive messages on social media about sports pundits Eni Aluko and Lucy Ward, as well as broadcaster Jeremy Vine.
The Court's Verdict
A jury at Liverpool Crown Court found that Barton's online behaviour had crossed the line between free speech and criminal activity. The 43-year-old was convicted on six counts of sending grossly offensive electronic communications, while being cleared of six other similar charges relating to posts made between January and March 2024.
The court heard how Barton had compared Aluko and Ward to serial murderers Fred and Rose West following a televised FA Cup match between Crystal Palace and Everton. He superimposed the faces of the two female pundits onto a photograph of the notorious killers, with jurors ruling this particular post was grossly offensive.
Impact on Broadcasting Career
Eni Aluko has revealed that her broadcasting work in the UK dwindled to the least TV I've ever done as she became embroiled in the criminal case against Barton. In an interview with The i Paper, the 38-year-old pundit expressed disappointment that broadcasters lacked the courage to support her during the abuse.
My appetite to work in a space where you don't feel protected and supported is gone, Aluko stated, adding that she would now pursue more international broadcasting opportunities. She described the period during litigation as particularly challenging for her career.
Wider Consequences and Sentencing
In a statement after the hearing, Aluko described social media as a cesspit where people hide behind freedom of speech to say things they wouldn't dare express in person. She emphasised that the messages from Barton had caused real damage to her life and career, welcoming the court's decision as a reminder that online actions have consequences.
Barton was also convicted for posts targeting Jeremy Vine, including references to the broadcaster as a bike nonce and suggestions about involvement with Jeffrey Epstein. The Honorary Recorder of Liverpool, Andrew Menary KC, noted Barton wore a Union flag-patterned scarf during verdicts, describing it as a stunt to make a point.
Barton has been bailed ahead of sentencing on December 8, with the judge warning he wouldn't be permitted to wear the scarf on that date. During his testimony, the former Manchester City and Newcastle United player claimed he was the victim of a political prosecution and described his posts as dark and stupid humour.
