Former England international Andy Carroll has entered a not guilty plea to charges of breaching a non-molestation order related to his former wife. The ex-Premier League striker appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, where he formally denied the allegation.
Court Appearance and Charge Details
Carroll is accused of repeatedly contacting Billi Mucklow, his former spouse and a reality television personality from The Only Way Is Essex, during March of last year. This contact allegedly violated a family court order issued at Chelmsford Justice Centre. The 37-year-old footballer, who currently plays for National League South side Dagenham & Redbridge, attended the hearing using crutches and wearing a foot brace on his left leg.
Legal Proceedings and Future Court Date
During the brief session, Carroll confirmed his personal details and elected for his case to be heard in a crown court rather than a magistrates' court. District Judge Roy Brown granted bail and scheduled the next appearance for 4th March at Chelmsford Crown Court. This will be a plea and trial preparation hearing, where Carroll will be asked to enter a formal plea. If he maintains his not guilty stance, arrangements for a trial will proceed.
Judge Brown explicitly outlined the next steps, stating: "Your next appearance at court will be at Chelmsford crown court on 4 March for a plea and trial preparation hearing. On that occasion you will be asked to enter a plea, if it remains a not guilty plea then arrangements will be made for a trial."
Carroll's Football Career and Personal Background
Andy Carroll earned nine caps for England between 2010 and 2012, scoring two international goals including one at the UEFA Euro 2012 tournament. His professional career began at Newcastle United before a high-profile £35 million transfer to Liverpool in 2011. He subsequently played for West Ham United, Reading, and West Bromwich Albion before joining his current club.
During the court proceedings, Carroll declined an offer to sit, telling the court clerk: "I'm OK, I'll stand." The case continues to develop as legal preparations advance toward the March hearing date.
