An assistant referee who has labored on FA Cup matches has been charged with a toddler intercourse offence.
Gareth Vicars, 46, from Milton Keynes, is accused of participating in sexual exercise with a 15-year-old lady in November 2021.
He appeared at Willesden Magistrates Courtroom earlier this month charged with the offence, which is opposite to the Sexual Offences Act 2003.
Vicars will subsequent seem at Snaresbrook Crown Courtroom on March 7, when it’s anticipated he might be requested to enter a plea.
The Skilled Recreation Match Officers Restricted (PGMOL), which is chargeable for the refereeing of video games in skilled English soccer, ‘instantly’ suspended Vicars as soon as the police started investigating the allegation.
A spokesperson mentioned: ‘As quickly because the allegations got here to gentle, Mr Viccars was instantly suspended.
‘Because the matter is the topic of an ongoing police investigation, we’re not able to remark any additional.’
Vicars has not officiated an EFL fixture since final yr.
He final appeared on the pitch because the fourth official for the League One conflict between Charlton Athletic and Derby County in February 2024.
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