Joey Barton X posts ‘crossed the line between free speech and crime’, court told

Joey Barton, the former footballer, is currently on trial for allegedly crossing the line between free speech and criminal behavior through his social media posts targeting female pundits Lucy Ward and Eni Aluko, as well as broadcaster Jeremy Vine. The jury has been informed that Barton faces 12 counts of sending grossly offensive communications intended to cause distress. This case highlights the ongoing debate about the limits of free speech, especially in the context of social media, and raises important questions about accountability and the treatment of women in sports commentary.