John Terry to face criminal charges over alleged racist abuse
# guardian.co.uk, Wednesday 21 December 2011 14.43 GMT
The Crown Prosecution Service has announced that John Terry will face criminal charges relating to an alleged racist slur aimed at the QPR defender Anton Ferdinand.
Terry, who denies wrongdoing, will appear before West London magistrates' court on 1 February 2012, charged with a racially aggravated public order offence.
Reacting to the development, the Chelsea and England captain said: "I am disappointed with the decision to charge me and hope to be given the chance to clear my name as quickly as possible. I have never aimed a racist remark at anyone and count people from all races and creeds among my closest friends.
"I will fight tooth and nail to prove my innocence. I have campaigned against racism and believe there is no place for it in society."
The news follows the CPS's recent confirmation that it had received additional evidence, thought to be new video footage of the incident, which allegedly occurred during Chelsea's defeat at Loftus Road on 23 October.
Alison Saunders, chief crown prosecutor for London said: "I have today advised the Metropolitan police service that John Terry should be prosecuted for a racially aggravated public order offence following comments allegedly made during a Premier League football match between Queens Park Rangers and Chelsea on 23 October 2011.
"The decision was taken in accordance with the Code for Crown Prosecutors and after careful consideration of all the evidence I am satisfied there is sufficient evidence for a realistic prospect of conviction and it is in the public interest to prosecute this case.
"Mr Terry will appear before West London magistrates' court on 1 February 2012. He is now summonsed with a criminal offence and has the right to a fair trial. It is extremely important that nothing should be reported which could prejudice his trial."
The CPS also released the full text of the charge against Terry, which reads: "On 23rd October 2011 at Loftus Road Stadium, London W12 you used threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour, or disorderly behaviour within the hearing or sight of a person likely to be caused harassment, alarm or distress which was racially aggravated in accordance with section 28 of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998. Contrary to section 31 (1) (c) of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998."
The Football Association is yet to respond to the latest development.
Quote:
Originally Posted by rahl
Now we will see if John Terry will be punished for being the great moral captain of England that he is.
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