Ex-Premier League Referee David Coote Charged Over Indecent Video Allegations
London, UK – Former Premier League referee David Coote has been formally charged with making an indecent video of a child, in a case that has sent shockwaves across the footballing world. The Crown Prosecution Service confirmed that the 41-year-old will appear at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, September 11, 2025.
The Charges Explained
According to reports from TalkSport, LADbible, and SportBible, Coote has been charged with creating a video categorized as Category A, which is the most serious classification under UK law for indecent imagery. The alleged offense was uncovered earlier this year during a routine digital investigation by Nottinghamshire Police’s cybercrime unit.
Police officials confirmed that the charge was filed on August 12, 2025, and that Coote was granted conditional bail pending his court appearance. No further details about the circumstances of the video have been released at this stage.
Who is David Coote?
David Coote rose through the ranks of English football refereeing, starting in the lower divisions before joining the Select Group of Premier League referees in 2018. He oversaw a number of high-profile fixtures, including VAR decisions that drew both praise and criticism from fans.
In 2023, Coote left the Premier League’s active roster. His career, once associated with professionalism on the pitch, is now overshadowed by these serious criminal allegations.
Football World Reacts
The news has sparked widespread reaction among the football community. Many fans expressed shock on social media, while others called for stricter vetting of referees and officials involved in professional sports.
One fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter): “Hard to believe this is the same referee we saw in the Premier League. Absolutely disgraceful if true.” Another commented: “This is damaging for English football’s reputation. The authorities must be transparent.”
Neither the Premier League nor the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) has issued an official statement yet.
Legal Proceedings Ahead
Coote is scheduled to face Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, where he will formally respond to the charges. If found guilty, he could face a prison sentence under the UK’s strict laws on child exploitation and online safety.
Legal experts note that while the charge is extremely serious, the process remains at an early stage, and the principle of “innocent until proven guilty” applies. Further hearings may be scheduled at Nottingham Crown Court depending on how the case progresses.
Public Concern
This case comes amid growing concern in the UK about digital crimes and online safety. The government has introduced several new laws in recent years, including the Online Safety Act, aimed at protecting children from online exploitation.
The involvement of a high-profile former Premier League referee in such a case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement and football authorities alike.
Conclusion
For now, the football community and the public at large await further details from the court proceedings. Regardless of the outcome, the case of David Coote underscores the importance of accountability and the duty of care owed by those in positions of influence within sport.
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