An assistant referee, who has officiated in EFL and FA Cup matches, has been charged with a child sex offense and is scheduled to appear in court.
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Gareth Viccars has been charged with engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a girl aged 13 to 15. He appeared at Willesden Magistrates' Court last week and remains in custody. His next court appearance is scheduled for March 7 at Snaresbrook Crown Court, where he is expected to enter a plea, according to Sky Sports News.
The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), the organization overseeing refereeing in English professional football, suspended Viccars pending the outcome of the police investigation. Reports indicate that the 46-year-old has not officiated any matches this season.
"As soon as the allegations came to light, Mr Viccars was immediately suspended. "As the matter is the subject of an ongoing police investigation, we are not in a position to comment any further."
Gareth started his refereeing career around the year 2000 at the age of 21. He has primarily officiated in League One, with his most recent match being a 0-0 draw between Wimbledon and Grimsby on March 3, 2024. Additionally, he has experience officiating in the FA Cup and the Carabao Cup.
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