Chelsea forward Sam Kerr has been acquitted of racially aggravated harassment charges after calling a Metropolitan Police officer “stupid and white.” A jury at Kingston Crown Court delivered the verdict following an incident in Twickenham, South-West London, on January 30, 2023.
Kerr, 31, claimed she felt “antagonised” by officers after being taken to a police station in a taxi following a disagreement. While she admitted using the words “stupid and white” toward PC Stephen Lovell, she denied that her comments constituted a racial offense.
In court, the Australian international showed relief, giving a thumbs-up to her legal team before leaving with her fiancée, Kristie Mewis. The altercation began after a taxi driver brought Kerr and Mewis to Twickenham Police Station, alleging that they had refused to pay for cleaning costs after one of them vomited in the vehicle. The driver also claimed that one of the women had broken the rear window of the taxi.
Judge Peter Lodder acknowledged Kerr’s role in the legal proceedings, stating, “I take the view her own behavior significantly contributed to bringing this allegation. I don’t question the jury’s verdict, but it has a substantial impact on the issue of costs.”
During the trial, Kerr expressed regret over her words but maintained the message was still relevant. She believed PC Lovell was using his power and privilege to accuse her falsely, causing fear for their lives.
Kerr’s legal team attempted to have the case dismissed early on, arguing that the Crown Prosecution Service mishandled the process. They accused the CPS of breaching guidelines and exploiting a loophole in the victims’ right of review scheme to justify proceeding with the case a year after the alleged incident.
PC Lovell was questioned about the incident during the trial, initially not mentioning distress from Kerr’s remarks. However, in a later statement, he described feeling “shocked, upset, and humiliated” by her words.
The case has garnered attention, with many following the outcome closely. The unique circumstances of the trial have sparked discussions regarding race, privilege, and the legal system’s handling of such cases.