A football fan has been slapped with a substantial financial penalty after subjecting England and Manchester United striker Marcus Rashford to disgusting racial abuse on social media.
Justin Jackson, 34, pleaded guilty to sending an offensive message after targeting the footballer with vile comments following a match in January 2023. The abuse came after Rashford missed a crucial chance during Manchester United's dramatic 3-2 defeat to Arsenal.
Jackson, from Runcorn in Cheshire, was ordered to pay a total of £1,615 during a hearing at Manchester Magistrates' Court. The penalty includes an £800 fine, £640 in court costs, and a £175 victim surcharge.
Abuse Followed High-Profile Match
The court heard how Jackson took to Facebook to post racially offensive language about the England international just hours after the Premier League clash at Emirates Stadium. His comments specifically referenced Rashford's skin colour in a deeply offensive manner.
Prosecutors described how the post remained visible for approximately 24 hours before being removed. During that time, it was seen by multiple users on the social media platform.
Police Investigation Leads to Arrest
Greater Manchester Police launched an investigation after being alerted to the offensive post. Digital evidence quickly led officers to identify Jackson as the perpetrator.
When questioned by police, Jackson admitted posting the abusive message but claimed he had been drinking heavily at the time of the offence. Despite this mitigation, district judge John Mullarkey deemed the crime serious enough to warrant significant punishment.
Football's Ongoing Battle Against Racism
This case represents another victory in football's continuing fight against discrimination. Rashford, who has become known for his campaigning work on child food poverty as well as his footballing talents, has frequently been targeted by online trolls.
The sentencing sends a clear message that racial abuse of high-profile sports figures will not be tolerated by authorities. Police and football authorities have increasingly worked together to identify and prosecute those who subject players to racist attacks online.
Jackson's conviction follows numerous similar cases where football fans have faced legal consequences for racially abusing players on social media platforms.
