Prosecutors in the trial of Australian footballer Sam Kerr have asked the jury to consider whether the situation would be different if she had used a racial insult against a Black officer. Kerr, 31, is charged with racially aggravated harassment against PC Stephen Lovell following an incident in London on January 30, 2023. She denies the charges, maintaining that she was frustrated after Lovell allegedly dismissed her claim of being “held hostage” by a taxi driver.
In his closing argument, prosecutor Bill Emlyn Jones stated that despite the positive character references from Kerr’s former teammates, she had still insulted Lovell using race-based language. He argued that her words, even if not deeply racist, still violated the law. Jones asked the jury to consider whether calling a Black officer “stupid and Black” would have been perceived differently, emphasizing that racial references in insults remain legally unacceptable.
Several Chelsea Women’s players, including Millie Bright and Carly Telford, testified in Kerr’s defense, describing her as kind, humble, and supportive. Telford recalled an incident from 2012, highlighting Kerr’s sportsmanship and generosity. Others spoke about Kerr’s contributions to charity and the LGBTQ+ community, portraying her as a unifying figure in women’s football. Her former coach, Emma Hayes, described her as warm-hearted and level-headed despite the pressures she faces.
Kerr’s mother, Roxanne, also provided a statement, calling her daughter “humble and honest” and someone who “fights for what is right.” The defense is set to deliver its closing arguments on Monday, as the jury weighs the case against the highly respected athlete.
