Former footballer Joey Barton convicted of six counts of sending offensive messages online. Targets included Jeremy Vine, Laura Ward, and ex-England footballer Eniola Aluko.
Former professional footballer Joey Barton has been found guilty of sending grossly offensive messages on social media.
The ruling was delivered at Liverpool Crown Court, where the 42-year-old faced charges relating to posts made earlier in 2024.
Barton was convicted on six counts. However, the court cleared him of six other similar charges after review.
The messages were directed at broadcaster Jeremy Vine, journalist Laura Ward, and former England footballer Eniola Aluko.
Prosecutors told the court that the posts were intended to cause distress, fear, or anxiety.
Barton denied this, arguing that his comments were not threats but attempts at humour.
“It was not meant to call him a paedophile. It was a bad, dark, juvenile joke.”
Joey Barton, in court.
He said the case had been exaggerated and described it as politically motivated.
Eniola Aluko told the court that she had once exchanged positive messages with Barton, which made his later attacks even more shocking to her.
“It felt malicious and calculated to get attention. He was promoting a podcast and appealing to a certain audience,”
Eniola Aluko, former England footballer.
Broadcaster Jeremy Vine said the remarks made him fear for his personal safety.
“Because of this cloud of filth Barton had released, I had to explain to my daughters why I was concerned,”
Jeremy Vine, broadcaster.
He said the impact forced him to change his daily routines for protection.
Judge Andrew Menary KC cautioned Barton against wearing a Union Jack scarf during sentencing, saying it may come across as a deliberate stunt.
The judge also reminded Barton that he must not mention the victims in any way while on bail.
Barton is expected to return to court for sentencing on December 8.
