Snooker Champion Graeme Dott Accused of Child Abuse
A former world snooker champion, Graeme Dott, has been accused of sexually abusing children, according to court documents. The 47-year-old Scot is facing two historical charges against a boy and a girl who were aged around 10 at the time of the alleged incidents.
The charges, which were reported to the police, claim that Dott attacked the girl between 1993 and 1996 in the Glasgow area. Prosecutors allege that he instructed her to remove her lower clothing and then exposed his penis before assaulting her.
In a second charge against a boy, it is claimed that Dott stripped naked and entered a shower as the youngster was bathing. He is also alleged to have sexually assaulted the boy between 2006 and 2010.
Dott, who won the World Snooker title in 2006, has been suspended by the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA) due to the ongoing case. The suspension rules him out of the World Championship, which is set to begin at the Crucible next weekend.
A spokesperson for the WPBSA said: "Graeme Dott has been suspended by the WPBSA 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."
The news comes as a shock to the snooker world, with Dott’s involvement in the tournament being a major talking point. He was due to face the winner of the match between Wang Yuchen and Brian Cini in the second round before his suspension was confirmed this morning.
The Scottish Sun understands that Dott’s suspension is a result of an ongoing investigation, and he will not be able to participate in the World Championship for the foreseeable future.
Dott has had a successful career in snooker, winning the World title in 2006 and reaching the final on two other occasions. However, his future in the sport is now uncertain as he faces these serious allegations.
In a recent interview, Dott hinted at a potential career change, suggesting that he may join the lucrative eight-ball pool circuit. However, it is unclear how these allegations will affect his plans.
The WPBSA has a strict policy regarding members’ conduct, and Dott’s suspension is a result of this policy. The governing body will not make any further comment on the matter while court proceedings are ongoing.
The World Championship is set to get underway at the Crucible on April 19, and Dott’s absence will be felt by fans and fellow competitors alike. The tournament will feature some of the world’s top players, but Dott will not be among them.
The allegations against Dott are serious and disturbing, and it is essential that the matter is fully investigated and dealt with through the proper channels. The Scottish Sun will continue to provide updates on this developing story as more information becomes available.
The incident has left a dark cloud over the sport, and many will be shocked by the allegations. The World Snooker Tour will undoubtedly be affected by Dott’s suspension, and fans will be eagerly awaiting the outcome of the case.
The Scottish Sun has approached Dott’s representatives for comment but has yet to receive a response. The matter is now in the hands of the courts, and it is essential that justice is served.
This is a developing story, and we will provide updates as more information becomes available.
As reported by The Scottish Sun:
“Graeme Dott has been suspended by the WPBSA 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.”
