English refereel Gareth Viccars to rot in jail 13 years for child abuse

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

English Football League assistant referee Gareth Viccars has been jailed for more than 13 years after admitting to a series of child sexual offences involving teenage girls he groomed online.

Viccars, 47, who officiated in the EFL and FA Cup, targeted three 15-year-old girls between November 2021 and October 2024.

Using Snapchat, he lied about his identity, claiming to be a teacher and built emotional connections with the victims before engaging them in sexual communication and arranging meetings.

At Snaresbrook Crown Court, Judge Caroline English described his behaviour as “predatory and deliberate,” noting that he sought out vulnerable teenagers and manipulated them for his own gratification.

She sentenced him to 13½ years in custody with a 3½-year extended licence period, warning that Viccars posed a continuing risk to young girls.

Prosecutors revealed that Viccars sent hundreds of sexualised messages and voice notes, exploiting the victims’ trust and convincing them to keep their interactions secret.

On one occasion, he was said to have nearly isolated a victim from her peers and family through his manipulation.

During the proceedings, the court heard how the abuse left the teenagers traumatised. One victim described feeling “trapped and confused,” while another said she feared nobody would believe her if she spoke out.

In addition to his prison term, Viccars has been placed on the sex offenders’ register for life and made subject to a sexual harm prevention order.

The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), which oversees referees in the professional leagues, confirmed he was immediately suspended and struck off their list once allegations surfaced.

The organisation condemned his actions, stating that his conduct was “abhorrent and incompatible with the values of football.”

The Metropolitan Police believe Viccars may have had other victims and have appealed for anyone with information to come forward.

“This case is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by online grooming,” said Detective Inspector John Stevens.

“Viccars exploited his position of trust and authority in sport to prey on vulnerable young girls. We urge anyone who may have been affected to contact us in confidence.”