CPS statement on a charge following Euro 2020 final
Mark Tavender, CPS Senior Crown Prosecutor, said: “The Crown Prosecution Service has authorised Kent Police to charge Bradford Pretty, 49, with sending an obscene message via a social media network.
“We made the decision to charge Mr Pretty, after reviewing a file of evidence from Kent Police relating to allegations of racist online abuse after the Euros 2020 final.
“The Crown Prosecution Service reminds all concerned that criminal proceedings against Mr Pretty are now active and that he has a right to a fair trial. It is extremely important that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.”
Background
The charge is:
- An offensive message sent via a public communications network under S127 of the Communications Act 2003
Notes to editors
- Mark Tavender is a Senior Crown Prosecutor in CPS South East
- Bradford Pretty (D.O.B.: 0/10/1971) lives in Folkestone, Kent
- Bradford Pretty is due to be at a hearing at 11.00 on 6 October 2021 at Folkestone Magistrates' Court
- The review of the evidence was carried out in accordance with the Code for Crown Prosecutors