Former World Snooker Champion Graeme Dott Found Guilty of Abusing Two Children
In a case that has shocked the sporting world, former world snooker champion Graeme Dott has been found guilty of sexually abusing two primary school-aged children. The verdict was delivered at the High Court in Glasgow, where the 49-year-old faced charges relating to incidents that occurred between 1993 and 2010. The abuse targeted a girl between 1993 and 1996, and a boy between 2006 and 2010, with the court hearing that Dott subjected both children to multiple incidents of abuse.
During the trial, Dott denied the allegations, describing them as “disgusting” and insisting he had never “acted inappropriately with anyone.” However, the prosecution presented compelling evidence, including testimony from the victims, which the advocate depute noted had “significant similarities.” The court heard that Dott molested the boy in a shower and later “rewarded” him with money, crisps, and fizzy drinks. The victims’ bravery in coming forward was highlighted by Detective Inspector Gary Smillie, who said, “We understand that it’s not easy to come forward to report incidents when they happen, but the two individuals involved in this have shown significant strength in coming forward and ultimately have been supported by specialist officers.”
The conviction marks a dramatic fall from grace for Dott, who won the World Snooker Championship in 2006. His career, which once brought him international fame and admiration, is now overshadowed by these heinous crimes. The case has also reignited discussions about the importance of believing and supporting survivors of abuse, especially when the perpetrator is a public figure. The court’s decision sends a clear message that no one is above the law, regardless of their status or achievements.
As Dott awaits sentencing, the focus remains on the victims, whose courage in speaking out has been instrumental in securing justice. Their ordeal serves as a stark reminder of the lasting impact of abuse and the necessity of creating safe environments for children. The snooker community, along with the wider public, will be watching closely as the legal process concludes, hoping that this verdict brings some measure of closure to the survivors and reinforces the message that such actions will always be met with the full force of the
Shimanta Das 
