EFL assistant referee charged with child sex offence following suspension during police investigation

The 46-year-old match official, who has been associated with the English Football League since 2018, has been charged with a child sex offence, according to The Telegraph. Viccars is due to appear at Snaresbrook Crown Court on March 7 for the hearing of one charge of penetrative sexual activity with a girl, aged between 13 and 15. He has remained suspended since last August following the launch of a police investigation into the accusation.

A statement from refereeing board Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) read: "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."

Other than officiating in EFL matches, Viccars has also worked on FA Cup and Carabao Cup games. His last appearance at a professional game was in March 2024 - a League Two encounter between AFC Wimbledon and Grimsby Town. Before joining the EFL, the referee used to officiate in Premier League 2 competitions featuring youth teams.

Depending on the verdict on March 7, the association will decide on their next course of action regarding the future of the official.