In the trial involving Australian football star Sam Kerr, who referred to a police officer as “stupid and white,” the prosecution has urged the jury to contemplate how the situation might have altered had she instead used the phrase “stupid and black.”
The 31-year-old Matildas forward faces charges of racially aggravated harassment towards PC Stephen Lovell, stemming from an incident that occurred in south-west London in the early hours of January 30, 2023. Kerr has refuted these allegations.
During his closing statements, prosecutor Bill Emlyn Jones argued that despite commendations from former teammates—who attended court on Friday to highlight Kerr as a “truly special human”—she still called Lovell “fucking stupid and white”.
“It may seem shocking or even disheartening, but that does not negate the fact that it occurred,” Emlyn Jones stated.
He contended that Kerr’s account of the incident in the taxi had no bearing on the core of the case, asserting that she was “drunk and angry,” reacting in “a fit of rage” that night. Kerr has claimed that Lovell dismissed her assertion of being “held hostage” by a cab driver.
Emlyn Jones clarified he was not labeling Kerr a “card-carrying racist,” but posed a “hypothetical question” to the jury.
“What if PC Lovell had been a black individual? What if she had called him fucking stupid and black?” he queried. “It’s not a truly fair question, is it? Referring to a white man as white lacks the same weight as calling a black man black.”
He continued, “Ultimately, in the heat of the moment, this remark referenced race and that is precisely what the law prohibits.”
“The law treats all races equally regarding racist language,” he emphasized.
Current and former players from Chelsea, including Millie Bright and Carly Telford, along with the team’s ex-manager Emma Hayes, have stepped forward to support Kerr in court.
On Friday, several members of Chelsea Women provided character testimonials, portraying Kerr as “one of the warmest, friendliest, kindest players,” albeit an “introvert” off the pitch.
Telford, who played as a goalkeeper for Chelsea from 2017 to 2022, recounted first encountering Kerr during a match in Australia in 2012 where Telford “came out to punch a ball and ended up punching Sam instead.” Afterward, they connected post-game, with Telford appreciating Kerr’s gesture of checking in on her. “She didn’t have to do that, but it was a very kind thing,” Telford noted.
Once Kerr joined Chelsea, the two became close friends. Telford highlighted Kerr’s positive interactions with younger academy players, noting, “That’s when you really see Sam shine. She has a knack for making people feel comfortable, which is why she gets along with everyone in the team.”
Telford characterized Kerr as an “introverted extrovert,” explaining that while Kerr showcases her skills on the field, “off the pitch, she’s rather quiet and reserved.”
She added that Kerr is “generous” when it comes to finances, often aiding younger players to ensure they can join in group outings.
Grace Forbes, representing Kerr’s defense, also shared several character witness statements.
Millie Bright, a Chelsea and England defender, referred to Kerr as a “truly special human.”
“Sam is that individual who connects with everyone, cultivates togetherness, and brings joy to all. She strongly believes in fostering the right atmosphere at the club,” her statement read.
“She possesses the biggest heart and would go above and beyond for others. Not many people can unite others as Sam does. She is truly extraordinary,” Bright further expressed.
Bright also mentioned Kerr’s ability to maintain a “poker face,” indicating that others may not realize the struggles she endures. “She strives not to burden others with her issues, dealing with them privately,” Bright noted.
Emma Hayes, former Chelsea manager and current head coach of the USA women’s national team, described Kerr as “one of the warmest, most considerate players” she has ever coached.
“She remains calm and composed, displaying mindfulness. Coming from a wonderful family, she has an incredibly kind spirit and a youthful heart,” Hayes commented. “I believe she adeptly manages the multitude of expectations that come her way.”
Erin Cuthbert, midfielder for Chelsea and Scotland, spoke of Kerr as a “wonderful friend and teammate,” noting her talent for recognizing the best in others. Cuthbert remarked on their immediate rapport, saying, “We clicked instantly and often find ourselves in fits of laughter.”
“She engages in charitable activities in Australia and is a crucial figure in the LGBT community. Sam leverages her platform for inclusivity, demonstrating that she lives those values every day,” Cuthbert shared. “That’s why I feel fortunate to call her my friend.”
Kerr’s mother, Roxanne, also submitted a statement, characterizing her daughter as “the most humble, honest, and loving person I know” who is always willing to advocate for what is right.
“I take immense pride in the woman she has become,” she concluded.
The defense’s closing arguments are scheduled for Monday.
