The former Manchester City footballer Joey Barton has been found guilty of posting grossly offensive messages on social media.
The posts were directed at Jeremy Vine and football commentators Lucy Ward and Eni Aluko.
In one post, Barton compared Ward and Aluko to the “Fred and Rose West of football commentary”.
The jury at Liverpool Crown Court found that Barton had “crossed the line between free speech and a crime” on six counts, following a five-day trial.
Following the verdict, Detective Inspector Alison White said:
“Barton embarked on a public hate campaign against the three victims, causing them considerable amounts of distress and anxiety.
“Despite pleading not guilty, a jury has today found that he crossed the line between what is considered free speech and what is grossly offensive.
“I welcome the verdict and hope this case can serve as an example to those who think they can spread hate, abuse and division without any repercussions.”
He will be sentenced on the 8th December
