A warning has been issued to social media users in connection with illegal posts following the arrest of former Boro footballer Adam Johnson.
Durham Police has issued social media guidance as a reminder to people who are unfamiliar with the law.
“Anyone who identifies someone who may or may not be a victim of a sexual offence is committing a criminal act,” a spokesman for the force has said.
“Victims of sexual assault are guaranteed the legal right to lifetime anonymity and publishing any details, including on social media, which may lead to their identification, is contrary to the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act 1992.
“Durham Constabulary wishes to remind social media users, and anyone else, who breaks the law that they will be dealt with robustly.”
People who post offensive tweets about Johnson himself may also be in Contempt of Court.
The former Boro winger was arrested on suspicion of having sex with a 15-year-old schoolgirl yesterday morning.
The 27-year-old has since been suspended by Sunderland AFC, his current club.
Johnson has been capped 12 times by England, burst through the Academy ranks at Boro before moving to Manchester City following the club’s relegation in 2009.
He later moved back to the area when he signed for Sunderland.
A Durham Police spokesman said: “A 27-year-old man was arrested earlier today on suspicion of sexual activity with a girl under 16.
Johnson was bailed last night pending further police inquiries.
A club statement said: “Sunderland AFC has confirmed that Adam Johnson has been suspended from the club, pending the outcome of a police investigation.
“No further comment will be made at the present time.”
No comments:
Post a Comment