The jury in the trial of Sam Kerr has retired to deliberate on charges of racially aggravated harassment against the renowned athlete. The case stems from a January 2023 incident in south-west London involving Kerr and her partner, Kristie Mewis, a midfielder for West Ham. Allegations include refusing to pay clean-up costs after an incident in a taxi and damaging the vehicle by breaking its rear window. The taxi driver, who has remained anonymous throughout the proceedings, claims that Kerr's actions were racially charged.
During the trial, Kerr defended her actions, explaining that she and Mewis were "very scared" and "trying to escape" from the cab when the damage occurred. Footage from PC Lovell's body-worn camera was presented to the jury, capturing Kerr's account of the event. She admitted to calling the taxi driver "stupid and white" but denied that her comments constituted racially aggravated harassment.
"I believed it was him using his power and privilege over me because he was accusing me of being something I'm not…" – Sam Kerr
Kerr further clarified her stance during the trial, indicating the fear she experienced in the taxi. She stated that her remarks were not meant to insult based on race but were an expression of frustration with the taxi driver's behavior.
"I was trying to express that due to the power and privilege they had, they would never have to understand what we had just gone through and the fear we were having for our lives." – Sam Kerr
Grace Forbes, representing Kerr, pointed out inconsistencies in the case, emphasizing that no consideration was given to the possibility that the driver could have acted as described by Kerr and Mewis. Forbes highlighted that despite the allegations, the police verified the £900 damage cost, yet the driver has not come forward or faced any criminal charges.
"No consideration appears to have been given that the driver could have done what two women said he did and still ended up at the police station…" – Grace Forbes
"Despite the allegations, they verified the (cost of damage) payment of £900. I'm sure he is very pleased he has remained unidentified." – Grace Forbes
The case has raised questions about the implications of power dynamics and privilege in such confrontations, with Forbes asserting that even individuals under the influence of alcohol can still be victims of crime.
"even if you are drunk you can still be the victim of a crime…" – Grace Forbes
Kerr's defense also addressed questions from prosecutors regarding her use of language during the incident. When asked if she considered PC Lovell "stupid because he was white," Kerr firmly responded with a simple denial.
"No." – Sam Kerr
As the jury now deliberates on a verdict, both sides await a resolution to this complex case. The outcome will have significant implications for Kerr and could set a precedent for similar cases in the future.
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