An assistant referee who officiated in EFL and FA Cup matches has been charged with a child sex offence.
Gareth Viccars, 46, faces one charge of penetrative sexual activity with a girl aged between 13 and 15.
The official, who has overseen matches in English professional football, has been remanded in custody following his initial court appearance.
Viccars appeared at Willesden Magistrates Court last week, where he was remanded in custody.
Gareth Viccars, 46, faces one charge of penetrative sexual activity with a girl aged between 13 and 15 (stock image)
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He is scheduled to appear at Snaresbrook Crown Court on March 3, where a plea will be entered.
The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) confirmed they had taken immediate action when the allegations emerged.
A PGMOL spokesperson told Sky Sports News: “As soon as the allegations came to light, Mr Viccars was immediately suspended.”
The spokesperson added: “As the matter is the subject of an ongoing police investigation, we are not in a position to comment any further.”
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It is understood that Viccars has not officiated any matches during the current season.
The PGMOL, which oversees refereeing in English professional football, maintained the suspension throughout the police investigation.
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Gareth Viccars will appear at Snaresbrook Crown Court on March 3 (stock image)
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Viccars has largely worked in League One, last officiating a match on March 3 in 2024 in a 0-0 between Wimbledon and Grimsby.
He has usually completed the role of second assistant, though as worked as fourth official at times as well as first assistant.
While predominantly working in League One, Viccars has also officiated in League Two and the FA Cup – acting as secodn assistant in a 4-1 win for Newport County against barnet on December 12 in 2023.