Former snooker world champion Graeme Dott jailed for historic child sexual abuse
Former world snooker champion Graeme Dott has been sentenced to seven years’ imprisonment after being convicted of historic child sexual abuse offences.
The 49-year-old, who won the World Snooker Championship in 2006 and was one of the sport’s most recognisable figures, was found guilty of offences involving two victims dating back several decades. The offences took place between 1993 and 2010.
Following his conviction, Dott’s membership of the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association was revoked and he was removed from the World Snooker Hall of Fame.
The case serves as another reminder that abuse can be reported many years after it took place and that those responsible can still be held accountable.
It is also another case where the accused is well-known, respected, successful or admired by others. For many survivors, this can create an additional barrier to coming forward.
Victims may worry they will not be believed because of the status, popularity or influence of the person responsible. Some may question their own experiences or fear the reaction of family, friends or the wider public.
However, a person’s reputation does not prevent allegations from being investigated. Nor does it diminish the experiences of those who have been harmed.
Why it can take years to speak out about sexual abuse
Many people who have experienced sexual abuse do not speak about it until years, or even decades, later. This can be for a number of reasons, including fear, shame, trauma, or concerns that nobody will believe them. These concerns can be even greater when the person responsible is well known, successful or held in high regard by others.
If you are reading this and have experienced sexual abuse, it is important to know that support is available.
Our specialist Abuse team supports survivors in a sensitive and confidential way. We can help you understand whether you may be able to bring a civil compensation claim and discuss the support available to you.
If you would like to speak to someone in confidence, you can contact Abbie Hickson by email at abbiehickson@bbkllp.co.uk or by telephone on 020 7288 4857.
