Police have launched an investigation after a man was arrested over racist messages sent to England defender Jess Carter during this summer’s Women’s Euros.
Lancashire Police confirmed that a 59-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of sending malicious communications after Carter was targeted with abusive messages online. He has since been released under investigation.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer had earlier expressed his support for Carter when the abuse first came to light. Cheshire Constabulary Chief Constable Mark Roberts condemned the incident, saying:
“The messages directed towards Carter were appalling, and I would like to commend her for standing up to this abuse and assisting with our investigation. Nobody should be subjected to such disgusting abuse, and I expect that today’s arrest will be the first of many over the coming months. We want to make it clear that racist abuse of this nature will not be tolerated. Everyone is responsible for what they do and say, and we want to ensure offenders cannot hide behind a social media profile to post vile comments.”
Carter also spoke about the ordeal, admitting it was a difficult moment for her. She said:
“The support I felt from the fans was incredible. I can’t thank them enough because without the fans, my team-mates and my family, I don’t know if I’d have ever had the courage to get back on the pitch and play again. I’m not normally someone who struggles with the hate they received because everyone is going to have their opinion. But this tournament has been tough and I wasn’t sure I’d be able to get back on the pitch and do me.”
The investigation is ongoing.
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