Jess Carter Racist Abuse: Man, 59, Arrested in Lancashire

Police have arrested a man in connection with racist abuse aimed at England international Jess Carter during the Women’s European Championship, Sport360NG reports.

The 27-year-old Chelsea defender was targeted with offensive messages on social media during the tournament in July, prompting an investigation.

Lancashire Police confirmed a 59-year-old man from Great Harwood was detained on suspicion of malicious communications and later released under investigation.

Cheshire Police Chief Constable Mark Roberts, who is also the National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for football policing, condemned the abuse, describing it as “disgusting and appalling.”

“No one should ever be subjected to such racism,” Roberts said, praising Carter for her cooperation in the inquiry. “This arrest is expected to be the first of many in the months ahead. People must understand that hiding behind a social media account does not protect them from accountability.”

Following the abuse, Carter announced she would step back from social media. The UK Football Policing Unit has been working with online platforms to trace those responsible for the messages.

Lancashire Police released bodycam footage of the arrest, with PC Dan Fish stressing that the force has zero tolerance for hate crime.

“We want to send a clear message that behaviour of this kind, whether online or in person, will not be accepted,” he said. “We will leave no stone unturned in pursuing those responsible, however long it takes.”