Joey Barton on Trial for Malicious Tweets Against Eni Aluko

Trial Date Set for Joey Barton: Accusations of Malicious Communications Against Eni Aluko

A trial date has been confirmed for former English footballer Joey Barton, who faces allegations regarding sending malicious communications to football pundit Eni Aluko. This legal proceeding comes after Barton reportedly expressed offensive remarks related to Aluko via social media.

Charges and Plea

During a court appearance at Liverpool Crown Court, Barton, 41, entered a not guilty plea against a charge for conveying an indecent or offensive message intended to cause distress or anxiety. The accusations pertain to a period between January 3 and January 8, with specific focus on communications made on the social media platform X.

Details of the Case

In the brief hearing, which lasted around 10 minutes, Recorder of Liverpool Andrew Menary KC assigned a trial duration of three days, scheduled to commence on May 19, 2024. Barton confirmed his identity, appearing in a dark checked jacket, which indicated his status as a former professional athlete.

Bail Conditions

As part of his bail conditions, Barton is prohibited from discussing Eni Aluko on any social media platforms until the conclusion of the trial. The legal proceedings have highlighted the implications of online communication among public figures.

Background on the Allegations

The case gained attention following Barton's tweets after Aluko and Lucy Ward appeared as pundits during an FA Cup match between Crystal Palace and Everton on January 4. Barton allegedly compared Aluko and Ward to notorious serial killers Fred and Rose West. Furthermore, during prior court sessions, he reportedly likened Aluko to historical figures such as Joseph Stalin and Pol Pot—assertions that have sparked considerable controversy.

Eni Aluko's Career

Eni Aluko, an ex-player who earned 33 international caps for England, retired from professional football in 2020 and has successfully transitioned into a broadcasting career. Her contributions to football and sports journalism have been widely recognized.

Joey Barton's Recent Developments

Previously, Barton served as the manager for Bristol Rovers in League One, but was relieved of his duties in October after a series of poor performances during his nearly three-year tenure. The situation regarding his legal troubles adds further complexity to his post-playing career.

Conclusion

The upcoming trial will undoubtedly attract attention not only for the implications regarding Barton's career but also for the ongoing conversation surrounding the responsibilities of public figures in their social media interactions. As the date approaches, both legal and football communities will keep a close eye on the proceedings and their outcomes.