Britain’s First Gay Father and Husband Face Additional Child Sex Offence Charges
ESSEX, United Kingdom – Property developer and football club owner Barrie Drewitt-Barlow, widely known as one of Britain’s first gay fathers, and his husband Scott Drewitt-Barlow have been hit with 18 additional criminal charges, including rape and child sex offences, during a court appearance in Essex.
The couple appeared before Chelmsford Crown Court on June 22, 2026, where prosecutors presented the new charges as part of an ongoing criminal investigation.
Additional Charges Filed
According to reports, the new allegations relate to offences said to have occurred between 2013 and 2026.
Barrie Drewitt-Barlow, 57, is now facing multiple charges, including allegations of sexual activity with a child, paying for the sexual services of a child, rape, and sexual assault, among other offences.
His husband, Scott Drewitt-Barlow, 32, faces additional allegations including rape and causing or inciting sexual activity.
The charges remain allegations, and neither defendant has entered a plea to the latest counts.
Court Sets Plea Hearing
The court remanded both men into custody pending further proceedings.
A plea hearing has been scheduled for September 2026, while a provisional trial date has been set for January 18, 2027.
The case is expected to attract significant public attention due to the couple’s high profile and business interests.
Prosecutors Outline Allegations
During earlier court proceedings, prosecutor Serena Berry reportedly described the pair as public figures who lived a multi-million-pound lifestyle.
She alleged that the defendants targeted young males, befriended them, and later groomed them before inviting them to various properties.
The allegations are part of the prosecution’s case and have not yet been tested in court.
From Public Fame to Criminal Investigation
Barrie Drewitt-Barlow gained national attention in 1999 when he and his then-partner became known as Britain’s first gay fathers after having children through surrogacy.
Over the years, he built a public profile through business ventures and appearances on television programmes, including reality shows focused on wealth and luxury lifestyles.
In 2025, Barrie and Scott Drewitt-Barlow acquired Maldon & Tiptree FC, a football club based in Essex.
Police Investigation and Football Ban
Police launched an investigation in May 2026, carrying out searches at the football club and the couple’s home in Danbury, Essex.
The two men were arrested during a police operation on May 6 and were formally charged shortly afterward.
Earlier this month, the The Football Association suspended both men from football-related activities pending the outcome of the investigation.
Authorities have emphasized that the case remains before the courts and that both defendants are entitled to the presumption of innocence unless and until proven guilty.
