UK: Footballer Colin Kazim-Richards to stand trial over homophobic gesture
A footballer accused of making a homophobic gesture to Brighton fans during a Championship match is to face trial.
Colin Kazim-Richards, 27, is accused of making the gesture while playing for Blackburn Rovers at Brighton and Hove Albion’s Amex Stadium on 12 February 2013.
The player, who currently plays for Turkish side Bursaspor, has previously denied a charge made under Section 5 of the Public Order Act.
His trial has been set for 14 and 15 January at Brighton Magistrates Court.
Kazim-Richards previously played for Brighton and Hove Albion until 2006 before moving to Sheffield United.
The footballer was absent from the pre-trial review hearing at Brighton Magistrates Court yesterday.
Mr Kazim Richards played 43 times for Brighton and Hove Albion between 2005/06.
Officers investigating the complaints against Kazim-Richards contacted Lancashire Police, Brighton and Hove Albion and Blackburn FC for assistance in February.
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