Adam Johnson on trial: Media storm on day one

A media storm surrounded Bradford Crown Court yesterday as Sunderland footballer Adam Johnson attended for the first day of his trial.
Adam Johnson entering Bradford Crown Court. Photo: PAAdam Johnson entering Bradford Crown Court. Photo: PA
Adam Johnson entering Bradford Crown Court. Photo: PA

Around a dozen photographers waited for the player's arrival at court, where he was accompanied by girlfriend Stacey Flounders.

More than 15 journalists sat inside the courtroom as the case began.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Johnson, 28, of Castle Eden, County Durham admitted meeting a child following sexual grooming and sexual activity with a child in court today.

Entering the guilty pleas from the dock, where he wore a black suit, white shirt and grey tie, Johnson was softly spoken.

He spent the remainder of yesterday's court session looking mostly calm, and listening to the arguments posed by the case's barristers.

After pleading guilty to those two charges, Johnson will now stand trial accused of two further counts of sexual activity with a child, which he continues to deny.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The complainant in all charges is a girl aged under 16 years old.

A jury was sworn in yesterday morning and then dismissed to return on Friday at 10.30am when Kate Blackwell QC, prosecuting, will outline the case against the winger.

Later in the trial, Orlando Pownall QC, appearing on behalf of Johnson, will outline the case for the defence.

Between now and Friday, the barristers and Judge Jonathan Rose will discuss points of law, which cannot be reported ahead of evidence being presented to jurors.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

On Friday when the case is opened and the evidence begins the Echo will be reporting live for the duration of the trial, which is expected to last into the week commencing February 22.

The exact number of days is unknown.