Former Manchester City and Newcastle midfielder Joey Barton has been charged with sending malicious online communications. This charge is linked to comments Barton allegedly made while criticizing football pundit Eni Aluko during her commentary on an FA Cup match broadcast by the BBC in January.
Barton, who will appear before Warrington Magistrates’ Court next week, is facing legal action after the Crown Prosecution Service authorized the charge. A statement from Cheshire Police confirmed the development, noting, “A man from Widnes has been summoned to court to face charges of malicious communications. Following an investigation by Cheshire Police, the Crown Prosecution Service has since authorized the charges for Joseph Barton. The 41-year-old will appear at Warrington Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 30 July.”
The charges are based on reports of alleged malicious communications online, which took place between Monday 1 January and Thursday 18 January. If convicted, Barton could face a maximum penalty of up to two years imprisonment and/or an unlimited fine.
Barton, who has a social media following of 2.8 million people, is known for his contentious tweets on various issues. Responding to the charge, the former England international, who also had stints with Rangers and Marseille during his controversial career, expressed his frustration on Twitter.
He posted, “I’m up next month…for ‘malicious communications’ charge at Warrington Mag (sic) for Eni Aluko tweets. Crazy times we’re living in. Haven’t the police got enough on their hands? British system is becoming a Banana Republic. Lawfare used against its own citizens for having a dissenting voice. Not quite North Korea yet but won’t be long. Viva La Revolution.”
Eni Aluko, a former Chelsea and England women’s team player, retired in 2020 and has since established a successful broadcasting career. The incident with Barton has highlighted the ongoing issues surrounding online behavior and the legal consequences that can arise from it.
Barton’s career has been marked by controversy both on and off the field. In October, he was sacked as Bristol Rovers manager after almost three years in charge due to a run of poor results. His tenure at the club was just one chapter in a career filled with notable highs and lows.
Born in Huyton, Merseyside, Barton’s professional career began at Manchester City, where he quickly made a name for himself as a tenacious and talented midfielder. However, his on-field prowess was often overshadowed by off-field incidents, including altercations with teammates and disciplinary issues.
After leaving Manchester City, Barton played for Newcastle United, Queens Park Rangers, and Burnley, among others. His time in the Premier League was punctuated by moments of brilliance and controversy, reflecting his complex persona. In addition to his domestic career, Barton had brief stints abroad, notably with Marseille in France’s Ligue 1 and Rangers in Scotland.
Off the pitch, Barton has never shied away from voicing his opinions, often courting controversy with his outspoken nature. His social media presence has been a double-edged sword, amplifying his views but also landing him in hot water on several occasions.
The upcoming court appearance marks yet another chapter in Barton’s eventful life, as he continues to navigate the challenges that come with his outspoken personality and public profile. The case will undoubtedly be closely watched, not only by his fans and followers but also by those interested in the broader implications of online behavior and the legal system’s response to it.
