Former Premier League Referee David Coote Charged Over making Indecent Child Abuse Video

© Tom Blewitt – Predator Awareness

David Coote, a former Premier League referee once trusted to officiate top-flight football matches, has been charged with making an indecent video of a child—an offence classified under the most serious category of child abuse imagery.

The 43-year-old, from Collingham, Nottinghamshire, is set to appear at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, 11 September, following a police investigation that began earlier this year. Nottinghamshire Police confirmed that the charge relates to a Category A video file recovered in February 2025. Category A is defined as the most severe classification, typically involving images or videos depicting sexual abuse of children.

A police spokesperson stated: 

“David Coote, aged 43, has been charged with the offence after an investigation by Nottinghamshire Police. The charge relates to a video file recovered by officers in February of this year.

Coote, of Collingham, was charged on 12 August and is currently on conditional police bail. He is due to appear at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court tomorrow 11 September.”

The alleged offence dates back to January 2, 2020, when Coote is accused of creating the video in question. The charge encompasses acts such as downloading, sharing, or saving indecent material involving children.

This development comes after Coote was dismissed from his refereeing duties by the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) in December 2024. His sacking followed a separate internal investigation into a video allegedly showing him making derogatory remarks about Liverpool FC and its former manager Jürgen Klopp.

The footballing world has reacted with shock and dismay, as Coote had officiated numerous high-profile matches during his career, including Premier League fixtures and FA Cup ties. His fall from grace now casts a shadow over the integrity of officiating at the highest levels of the sport.

Legal proceedings are expected to begin with Thursday’s hearing, where Coote will face the charge formally. He remains on conditional bail pending further developments.

This is a developing story. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.

Follow us on:

Read our latest articles:

Tom Blewitt

Leave a comment