Former Snooker World Champion Graeme Dott Charged with Historical Child Sex Offences
Graeme Dott, the 2006 World Snooker Champion, has been formally charged with historical child sex offences and is set to appear at the High Court in Glasgow on June 11. The 47-year-old, who remains one of Scotland’s most recognized snooker figures, faces allegations relating to the sexual abuse of two children. According to prosecutors, the alleged offences occurred during two separate periods — between 1993 and 1996, and again from 2006 to 2010 — with the victims said to be around the age of 10 at the time.
As a result of the charges, Dott has been suspended from professional snooker by the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA). The governing body confirmed his suspension just days before the start of this year’s World Championship, which begins on April 18 at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield. Dott had been scheduled to compete in the qualifying rounds.
A WPBSA spokesperson stated, “Graeme Dott has been suspended due to a case which is scheduled to be heard before the High Court in Scotland. Whilst court proceedings are ongoing, it would be inappropriate for the WPBSA to make any further comment.”
Dott rose to prominence in the snooker world after defeating Peter Ebdon in the 2006 World Championship final. He also reached the finals in 2004 and 2010 and is currently ranked 56th in the world. The allegations have cast a dark cloud over his legacy and career, and the case is expected to attract significant public and media attention in the months ahead.
