Joey Barton To Pay A Further £35,000 To Jeremy Vine
Former footballer Joey Barton will pay an additional £35,000 in damages to broadcaster Jeremy Vine, bringing the total settlement to £110,000.
This follows Vine's defamation lawsuit over a series of defamatory posts Barton made earlier this year. Initially, Barton agreed to pay £75,000 in damages and legal costs, but Vine's legal team confirmed this was not the final outcome.
The lawsuit stemmed from Barton's posts accusing Vine of having a sexual interest in children and promoting forced vaccinations, among other allegations. In May, the High Court ruled the comments were defamatory.
Despite an offer to settle out of court early on, Barton continued to post offensive content, including publishing Vine's home address.
Barton issued an apology on social media, acknowledging the severity of his false claims and stating, "I do not believe that Mr Vine has a sexual interest in children, and I wish to set the record straight."
However, Vine noted that Barton's apology and initial payment were insufficient due to continued defamatory actions.
As part of the settlement, Barton is required to participate in a public statement in Open Court, offering a comprehensive apology and pledging not to repeat his actions.
The abusive posts began after Vine questioned Barton's comparison of female football pundits to serial killers Fred and Rose West. In response, Barton launched what was described as a "calculated and sustained attack" on Vine, calling him derogatory names and inciting his followers.
In court, Barton's barrister argued the posts were "vulgar abuse" made in the heat of the moment. However, the judge ruled they were defamatory and reinforced a false impression.
Barton's actions prompted a parallel legal action for his subsequent posts, resulting in the additional damages.
The case highlights the severe consequences of making defamatory statements online, especially when involving public figures. Vine expressed relief that his claims were resolved and that he had been vindicated against Barton's "appalling allegations and conduct."
Despite the legal outcome, Barton appeared unbothered, posting a video of himself playing golf shortly after the settlement announcement. His legal obligations include paying all of Vine's legal costs and adhering to the court's requirements for a formal apology.
