Graeme Dott scandal: Former Snooker World Champion faces child sex abuse charges – what we know so far

Former world snooker champion Graeme Dott has reemerged in the public eye under grave circumstances, as he appears at the High Court in Edinburgh facing historic child sex abuse allegations. The 48-year-old Scot, celebrated for his 2006 world title win, is accused of heinous crimes spanning decades, and has denied all wrongdoing. The case pits the principles of justice against intense media scrutiny and public interest.

Allegations Stretch Across Two Distinct Time Periods

Dott faces two charges of sexual abuse involving primary school-age children in the Glasgow region. The first relates to alleged offences committed between 1993 and 1996, involving a girl; the second involves a boy between 2006 and 2010.

The accused denies all charges, with his defence declaring the allegations are fabricated and false. A preliminary trial date has been set for 17 August next year in Glasgow, and Dott remains on bail pending that hearing.

Court Hearing: Bail Conditions Revised

In a recent procedural hearing, Dott’s legal team successfully challenged a bail condition that barred him from entering his matrimonial home. Defence counsel described the restriction as an “administrative oversight.” Judge Lord Harrower granted the modification, allowing Dott to return to his family’s residence in Larkhall, Lanarkshire.

The adjustment underscores how closely bail conditions are scrutinized in high-profile cases, balancing public protection and an accused’s rights.

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Sporting Fallout: Suspension from Snooker

Following the public revelations of the charges, the World Professional Billiards & Snooker Association (WPBSA) suspended Dott under its safeguarding regulations. Prior to the suspension, Dott had been expected to participate in the 2025 World Championship qualifiers, but was removed from the draw, with his would-be opponent receiving a bye.

This disciplinary move raises broader questions about how sporting bodies balance presumption of innocence against reputational risk and duty of care to their memberships.

Legal Implications of Historic Abuse Cases

Prosecuting allegations from decades ago is notoriously complex. In Scotland, there is no statute of limitations for serious sexual offences, enabling prosecution regardless of how much time has elapsed.

However, such cases often rest heavily on witness testimony, recollection, and the credibility of accounts, especially in the absence of physical or forensic evidence. Observers say the trial will challenge courts to balance trauma-informed justice with the rights of an accused to a fair hearing.

Media, Fair Trial, and Public Interest

From the outset, Dott’s case has drawn intense media coverage, spotlighting the tension between free press and protecting judicial integrity. Legal experts caution that pervasive pre-trial publicity can risk prejudice and affect jury impartiality.

Scottish law, aligned with the Contempt of Court Act 1981, seeks to prevent reporting that could unfairly influence proceedings. Yet in the digital age, information, and speculation, travels faster than court orders. The Dott case will likely serve as a litmus test for how courts and media navigate this delicate balance.

What Happens Next: Trial and Public Repercussions

Preparations are now underway for a five-day trial, beginning 17 August next year, presided over by Lord Harrower. Defence and prosecution will exchange evidence, outline agreed facts, call witnesses, and test credibility.

Regardless of the verdict, this trial will likely echo far beyond snooker’s corridors, impacting debates around how society handles historic abuse claims, how sports institutions police behavior, and how justice coexists with media scrutiny.

FAQ

Who is Graeme Dott?

Graeme Dott is a professional snooker player from Scotland who won the World Snooker Championship in 2006. Known for his tactical gameplay and resilience, he was one of the sport’s leading figures before being charged with historic child sex offences in 2025.

What are the allegations against Graeme Dott?

Dott faces two separate charges of alleged sexual abuse involving primary school-age children in the Glasgow area. The first set of allegations covers 1993–1996 and involves a girl, while the second spans 2006–2010 and involves a boy. He has denied all charges and is currently on bail pending trial.

When will Graeme Dott’s trial take place?

According to court documents, Graeme Dott’s trial is scheduled for 17 August 2026 at the High Court in Edinburgh. The proceedings are expected to last several days and will be presided over by Judge Lord Harrower.

Has Graeme Dott been convicted?

No. As of October 2025, Graeme Dott has not been convicted of any crime. The case remains active, and he maintains his innocence while awaiting trial.

Why was Graeme Dott suspended by the WPBSA?

The World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA) suspended Dott in early 2025 after the allegations surfaced. The suspension was a precautionary measure under its safeguarding policies to protect the sport’s integrity while legal proceedings continue.

What happened at Graeme Dott’s latest court hearing?

At a procedural hearing in October 2025, Dott’s lawyer, Euan Dow, asked the High Court to lift a bail restriction preventing him from entering his matrimonial home. The judge approved the request, calling the restriction an administrative oversight.

Are there time limits for prosecuting historic abuse cases in Scotland?

No. Scotland has no statute of limitations for serious sexual offences. This means alleged crimes, even decades old, can still be prosecuted if sufficient evidence exists.

Can media coverage affect Graeme Dott’s trial?

Yes. Legal experts warn that intense media coverage and social media speculation can shape public perception before trial, risking jury bias. Under the Contempt of Court Act 1981, journalists are legally restricted from publishing material that could prejudice active proceedings.

What rights does Graeme Dott have under Scottish law?

Under Article 6 of the European Convention on Human Rights, every accused person has the right to a fair and public hearing. Scottish courts must ensure that public commentary and reporting do not compromise this right.

What could happen if Graeme Dott is found guilty?

If convicted, Dott could face a lengthy prison sentence under Scottish sexual offences law. However, as the trial has not yet begun, the court has made no findings of fact or guilt at this stage.

What does this case mean for Scottish justice and the media?

The Dott case has become a test case for balancing fair trial rights with the public’s right to information in the digital era. It highlights how easily online discussions can blur the line between reporting and judgment in high-profile criminal cases.

Where is Graeme Dott now?

Dott is currently believed to be living in Larkhall, Lanarkshire, after his bail conditions were modified. He remains suspended from all professional snooker activities pending trial.