Sunderland winger adam johnson trial begins

The trial of Adam Johnson, the former Sunderland winger, began on January 10, 2016, at Bradford Crown Court. Johnson was accused of six counts of sexual activity with a child, including one count of sexual activity with a child under the age of 16.

The prosecution alleged that Johnson had engaged in sexual activity with a 15-year-old girl on several occasions between December 2014 and February 2015. The girl, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was a fan of Johnson's and had met him at a signing session at a Sunderland store.

Johnson denied all the charges against him, claiming that the sexual activity was consensual and that the girl had lied about her age. However, the prosecution presented evidence that suggested Johnson had been aware that the girl was underage and had taken steps to hide his relationship with her from his friends and family.

The trial lasted for several days, during which time the prosecution presented evidence from the girl, her friends, and her family members. The defense presented evidence from Johnson's friends and teammates, who testified that he had never mentioned the girl's age to them.

On March 5, 2016, the jury delivered a verdict: Johnson was found guilty of one count of sexual activity with a child under the age of 16. He was acquitted of the other five charges.

Johnson was sentenced to six years in prison, with an additional year on license. He was also placed on the sex offenders' register for life.

The case sparked widespread outrage and condemnation, with many people expressing shock and disgust at Johnson's actions. The incident also led to a re-evaluation of the way in which football clubs and other organizations handle allegations of sexual misconduct.

In the aftermath of the trial, Johnson's former club, Sunderland, issued a statement expressing their disappointment and disgust at his actions. The club also launched an investigation into how the allegations had been handled and whether any club officials had been aware of the situation before it became public.

The case also led to a wider debate about the culture of entitlement and sexism in football, and the need for greater awareness and education about sexual consent and respect.