Television presenter Jeremy Vine has testified to a jury that he felt unjustly attacked by former footballer Joey Barton, who accused him of pedophilia. Vine had stepped in to defend football commentators Lucy Ward and Eni Aluko after Barton posted a doctored image of them as notorious serial killers Fred and Rose West. Following an FA Cup match between Crystal Palace and Everton in January 2024, Barton compared Ward and Aluko to the murderers in a post on the social media platform X.

Barton, aged 43, is facing trial in Liverpool on charges of posting offensive messages intended to cause distress or anxiety. Vine expressed his shock at Barton's comments, which he believed crossed a line. Barton subsequently retaliated against Vine with offensive posts, labeling him a "pedophile" and linking him to infamous scandals.

Vine recounted feeling deeply troubled by the escalation of the situation and physically threatened. He took measures to enhance his security and explained the situation to his two daughters. Ultimately, in June 2024, Barton agreed to pay Vine £75,000 in damages for defamation and harassment, along with an additional £35,000 for other related matters. Barton issued a public apology to Vine on social media.

This case highlights the dangers of reckless behavior on social media and underscores the importance of accountability for one's words and actions, particularly for public figures.