Former Footballer Convicted Over Offensive Online Posts
Former professional footballer Joey Barton has been found guilty of posting grossly offensive messages on social media platforms. The verdict was delivered by a jury at Liverpool Crown Court on Friday 7th November 2025, concluding a high-profile case that has drawn significant public attention.
Details of the Offences
The 43-year-old ex-Manchester City and Newcastle midfielder faced twelve charges of sending grossly offensive electronic communications with intent to cause distress or anxiety between January and March last year. The jury found him guilty on six counts while acquitting him on the remaining charges.
Among the most controversial posts was one shared on X (formerly Twitter) in January 2024, where Barton compared football commentators Lucy Ward and Eni Aluko to serial killers Fred and Rose West. The post featured the women's faces superimposed on a photograph of the notorious murderers.
In another message, Barton allegedly suggested that broadcaster Jeremy Vine had a sexual interest in children. This came after Vine had posted a question asking whether Barton might have a "brain injury".
Barton's Defence and Court Proceedings
During the trial at Liverpool Crown Court, Barton defended his posts as "dark and stupid humour" and described them as "crude banter". He strongly denied any intention to imply that Jeremy Vine was a paedophile and claimed he was facing a "political prosecution".
The footballer, who resides in Widnes, Cheshire, argued that his motivation wasn't "to get clicks and promote himself" through the controversial content. However, the jury ultimately found that six of the messages crossed legal boundaries and were sent with intent to cause distress or anxiety to their recipients.
This case highlights the increasing legal scrutiny surrounding social media use and the boundaries of online communication, particularly for public figures with substantial followings.
