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Sam Kerr set to argue she never called police officer a ‘bastard’

Australian football superstar Sam Kerr is hoping to have her criminal case thrown out as she argues there was one word she never said.

‘Double standards’ on racism exposed as Sam Kerr faces charges in the UK

Sam Kerr is reportedly set to argue her case that she never referred to a police officer as a “stupid white bastard”.

The alleged remark was brought to light a day after the Matildas striker appeared at Kingston Crown Court via videolink.

It’s now being reported by The Australian that Kerr, 30, will argue she never called the officer in question a ‘bastard’.

The report notes that Kerr isn’t denying that she referred to the policeman as “white”, but will instead argue she said “stupid white cop”.

The incident allegedly occurred on January 30, 2023, just hours after Kerr scored an incredible hat-trick to propel Chelsea to a 3-2 FA Cup victory over Liverpool.

Kerr is said to have been sick in the back of a taxi after a night out when police were called to the dispute.

A hearing is scheduled for April 26 where Kerr’s legal team will apply to have the case dismissed on grounds of abuse of process.

The lengthy delay in charging Kerr was reportedly due to Crown Prosecution Service lawyers deciding what offence to prosecute her for.

Kerr was ultimately charged with intentionally causing racially aggravated harassment, alarm or distress to the male PC. She has pleaded not guilty. If convicted, Kerr could face a maximum sentence of two years’ imprisonment.

Kerr will argue she never said one word to London police officer. (Photo by Harriet Lander – Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)
Kerr will argue she never said one word to London police officer. (Photo by Harriet Lander – Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)

The star striker drew widespread support from the Australian public after the alleged remark was published.

A range of figures have voiced their thoughts on the allegation, from other high-profile sports people to politicians and countless members of the public.

NSW premier Chris Minns was asked on Thursday if Kerr’s alleged comment should be considered racist.

“No,” he replied, in a succinct response that seems to reflect the opinion of most people.

NSW health minister Ryan Park said he had “been called a lot worse”, a sentiment echoed by former Socceroo Robbie Slater.

Minns’ response didn’t sit well with everybody, however, including One Nation MP Tania Mihailuk, who previously served alongside the premier in the Labor Party.

“The premier has just endorsed racism. He also exposed himself as a total hypocrite, pandering to populism at the expense of sound judgement,” Mihailuk said in comments reported by News Corp.

She added her belief Minns “would be leading the mob” if the comments were reversed.

Kerr is currently sidelined through injury. (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)
Kerr is currently sidelined through injury. (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)

Many Australians however took to social media to share their support for Kerr calling her a “national hero” and “absolute legend”.

Former Hockeyroos star and Channel 7 sport commentator Georgie Parker was among those supporting Kerr on X, formerly Known as Twitter.

One user wrote: “Sam Kerr you absolute legend.”

Another added: “Sam Kerr is a national hero, she’s so real.”

Chelsea manager Emma Hayes on Thursday also spoke out in support of Kerr.

“Sam has our full support. She knows that. It’s a difficult time for her,” Hayes said on Wednesday.

“Of course I can’t comment, you know that. I can say I know she’s pleaded not guilty and I don’t want to do anything to jeopardise anything for Sam by speaking about it.

“For that reason, I’m sure you can appreciate that’s all I’m going to say on the matter, but she has our full support, she knows that, it’s really important I get that across. It’s something I really value.”

Originally published as Sam Kerr set to argue she never called police officer a ‘bastard’

Original URL: https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/football/sam-kerr-set-to-argue-she-never-called-police-officer-a-bastard/news-story/5ab47df5832cbbb1769b112aa28b18dc