Ex-Rangers Player Joey Barton Criticized for Crossing Line with Controversial ‘Bike Nonce’ Posts in Social Media Trial
Former Rangers player Joey Barton is currently facing trial for controversial social media posts aimed at public figures including TV host Jeremy Vine and football pundits Eni Aluko and Lucy Ward. The case is being heard at Liverpool Crown Court, where Barton is charged with 12 counts of sending grossly offensive electronic communications intended to cause distress.
Barton’s Social Media Controversy
Barton, 43, made a series of provocative posts on the platform X (formerly Twitter) between January and March of last year. According to prosecutor Peter Wright KC, Barton’s following on X exceeds two million, making his comments particularly impactful.
Allegations Against Barton
- Barton is accused of targeting three public figures with offensive posts.
- He allegedly likened Eni Aluko and Lucy Ward to notorious criminals.
- Barton referred to them in a tweet comparing them to Frederick and Rosemary West.
- He posted an image modifying their faces onto the criminals’ bodies, captioning it with a dismissive comment.
- In another post, he evoked historical figures Joseph Stalin and Pol Pot while criticizing Aluko.
Mr. Wright stated that Barton’s posts crossed the line between free speech and criminal conduct on multiple occasions. He pointed out that while free expression is vital, there are limits to what society tolerates.
Response from Jeremy Vine
In response to Barton’s social media attacks, Vine expressed concern over Barton’s mental state, suggesting that his behavior might indicate a brain injury. Barton responded to this by labeling Vine as a “big bike nonce,” escalating the conflict.
Public and Legal Perspectives
The prosecutor characterized Barton’s actions as puerile and infantile, deeming them unacceptable for someone of his stature. Barton’s defense contends that he did not intend to provoke distress or anxiety.
As the trial unfolds, it highlights ongoing debates about boundaries in social media discourse and the responsibilities of public figures when engaging in such platforms. Barton denies all allegations against him, and the jury will deliberate on the appropriateness of his actions in this digital age.
