A jury is deliberating on the verdict for Australian soccer star Sam Kerr’s trial in London, centred around charges related to a confrontation with police. On the sixth day of proceedings at Kingston Crown Court, Kerr listened as her defence counsel, Grace Forbes, argued for her acquittal, following a summary from Judge Peter Lodder KC.
Forbes emphasised that the prosecution must prove beyond reasonable doubt that Kerr intended to cause harassment to police constable Stephen Lovell. This incident followed a taxi ride that deteriorated after Kerr became unwell, resulting in her and her partner, Kristie Mewis, alleging they were kidnapped and feared for their safety.
Forbes contended that Kerr’s actions during the altercation were a poor expression of her feelings of power and privilege, particularly regarding how the police responded to their claims. She highlighted issues in police conduct after the taxi incident, asserting that the officers failed to adequately investigate the women’s serious concerns.
While admitting that Kerr’s phrasing was unfortunate, Forbes argued that intoxication does not preclude someone from being a victim of crime. She suggested that the police’s decision to charge Kerr may have been influenced by her high profile. Kerr and her family waited apprehensively while the jury deliberated, as the outcome could impact her reputation and the captaincy of the Matildas.