Man Sentenced for Sending Racist Messages Online
A 60-year-old man from Great Harwood, Lancashire, has received a suspended prison sentence for posting racist messages on social media about England football player Jess Carter. Nigel Dewale, using the TikTok username ‘Bogeyman’, sent two offensive posts during Euro 2025 last summer.
At the time, Dewale was drinking at home and reacted to a news story regarding police investigations into online racial abuse that surfaced after the England-France-Sweden matches during the tournament. The messages, determined to have originated from Dewale, led to his arrest and subsequent charges.
Judicial Proceedings and Sentencing
On Wednesday, Blackburn Magistrates Court sentenced Dewale to six weeks in custody, suspended for 12 months. He had previously pleaded guilty to sending grossly offensive messages via a public communications network. The court proceedings highlighted the broader implications of online abuse on individuals and communities.
Impact on Jess Carter
Jess Carter, now 28, plays for Gotham FC in the NWSL and was a key member of the Lionesses, who successfully defended their title at the Swiss tournament. Prosecutor Graham Tyndall noted that after the initial wave of online abuse, Carter chose to distance herself from social media, relying instead on her sister to monitor her accounts. Carter expressed that the incident significantly impacted her confidence, leaving her feeling insecure and fearful.
Defendant’s Apology and Community Standing
Dewale’s defense attorney, Bradley Hayes, reported that Dewale deeply regretted his actions, feeling shame for letting down his family and community. He issued a sincere apology to Carter, acknowledging the disgrace of his actions and expressing a desire to learn from the experience. Hayes emphasized Dewale’s role as the primary caregiver for his daughter, who has epilepsy, arguing that incarceration would place her at a severe disadvantage.
Judicial Considerations on Sentencing
District Judge Tony Watkin considered the potential impact on Dewale’s daughter before delivering the sentence. He indicated that Dewale was “very close” to being sentenced to prison but acknowledged the defendant’s realistic prospects for rehabilitation. The judge condemned Dewale’s actions, pointing out that targeting someone for their prominence in sports inflicted fear and pain.
Legal Ramifications and Wider Implications
Judge Watkin addressed the misconception that online offenses are less serious due to their virtual nature. He noted that such messages have real-world consequences, highlighting how online behavior can prompt significant changes in the lives of those targeted. Dewale’s conviction should serve as a warning that perpetrators of online hatred can and will be identified and held accountable.
Consequences and Further Legal Measures
Dewale received a four-year ban from attending football matches, although he had not participated in games for several years. He is also subject to a three-month curfew and must complete a 10-day rehabilitation order alongside paying court costs of £85 and a victim surcharge of £145. Additional charges led to Dewale receiving a concurrent four-week suspended prison sentence for possessing a retractable baton in a private setting.
John Moran from the Crown Prosecution Service remarked on the case, stating that Dewale’s choice to engage in racism during a time when the England women’s team was celebrating their achievements stood in stark contrast to patriotism. This case serves as a reminder that hateful actions online will not go unpunished and that justice will prevail for those who distribute such messages, whether on or off the field.
Information from PA contributed to this report.
