Football club buyers charged with 18 more offences

Football club buyers charged with 18 more offences extends Essex Police’s case against Barrie Drewitt-Barlow and Scott Drewitt-Barlow, owners of Maldon & Tiptree FC. The force said 18 additional charges, including multiple rape offences, were brought against the couple, accused of targeting and grooming young males across the country between 2013 and 2026. Barrie, 57, is charged with two offences of paying for sexual services of a child, alongside other alleged crimes. Scott, 32, faces additional accusations including causing or inciting sexual activity and two counts of rape. The pair, who bought the non-league club in 2025 and oversaw its promotion to tier seven, are in custody and due to appear at Chelmsford Crown Court on Monday afternoon. Police began inquiries after raids in May, including at the club and their home in Southwood Chase, Danbury. Elsewhere, the investigation also mentions another defendant, Richard Howard-Smith, and Eldred Reames, due in court as well.