Chief Magistrate Howard Riddle has cleared John Terry of racially abusing Anton Ferdinand.
John Terry was accused of calling Anton Ferdinand a a “f****** black c***” during a Premier League Game on October 23 last year.
The Chief Magistrate said: ”whether Mr Terry is a racist in the broadest sense of the word”. He said he had heard a great deal of evidence to show that he is not.” It is understandable why Mr Terry wants to make this point, his reputation is at stake.”
Alison Saunders, Chief Crown Prosecutor for London said:
“The very serious allegation at the heart of this case was one of racial abuse. It was our view that this was not “banter” on the football pitch and that the allegation should be judged by a court.”
“The Chief Magistrate agreed that Mr Terry had a case to answer, but having heard all of the evidence he acquitted Mr Terry of a racially aggravated offence.”
“That is justice being done and we respect the Chief Magistrate’s decision.”
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“The court has today acquitted John Terry of all charges. He has consistently explained his position to the FA, to the police and to the Court.”
“He did not racially abuse Mr Ferdinand and the Court has accepted this. John would like to thank his legal team for their hard work and his family, friends and Chelsea Football Club for their support.”
– JOHN TERRY’S SOLICITOR’S STATEMENT
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