Joey Barton to pay Jeremy Vine over £200k after defamation case

Joey Barton will pay Jeremy Vine significant legal costs after a libel case regarding false allegations.

Joey Barton ordered to pay over £200k to Jeremy Vine for defamation

Joey Barton, the former England footballer, has been ordered to pay over £200,000 in legal costs to BBC presenter Jeremy Vine following a libel case. The High Court ruled that Barton had defamed Vine by calling him a “big bike nonce” and a “pedo defender” on social media. Barton had already agreed to pay £110,000 in damages and made two apologies last year. In total, Barton's payments now amount to £203,172.30, including £160,000 in legal costs for Vine. Vine’s legal representation emphasized the distress caused by Barton's online campaign and highlighted his lack of cooperation during negotiations.

This case underlines the serious repercussions of online defamation. Barton’s comments were not just careless; they were part of a broader, damaging narrative against Vine. The large financial penalty serves as a warning to public figures about the dangers of making false allegations online. Vine's insistence on accountability also reflects a cultural shift where victims are increasingly willing to take a stand against defamation and harassment. The nature of modern communication demands responsibility, and Barton's case is a stark reminder of this.

Highlights

As online statements gain far-reaching impact, the importance of accountability becomes ever clearer.