Former World Snooker Champion Graeme Dott Jailed for Child Sexual Abuse
BBC News reports that former world snooker champion Graeme Dott has been sentenced to seven years in jail for child sexual abuse.
Trial and Verdict
Dott was convicted following a trial at the High Court in Glasgow, where he denied two charges of lewd and libidinous behaviour towards a girl and a boy between 1993 and 2010.
Judge's Ruling
Judge Lord Harrower described Dott's actions as grooming and stated that he robbed his victims of "a significant part of their childhood." He also mentioned that Dott rewarded his victims with treats, disguising his abuse as part of a game.
Victims and Impact
The first victim was around nine years old when the abuse began, while the second victim was approximately eight years old when Dott started abusing them. Dott was 16 or 17 at the time of the first victim's abuse.
Lord Harrower noted that Dott warned his victims they would not be believed if they disclosed his actions, leading to "overwhelming emotions of fear, shame, and anger" that affected their mental health into adulthood.
Sentencing
Despite Dott shaking his head in disbelief, Lord Harrower, citing social work reports, stated that he poses a "below average risk of reoffending." However, as Dott maintains his innocence, the judge could not consider any remorse.
The seven-year sentence, backdated to 24 August, ensures Dott will remain on the sex offenders register for life.
Statements
Euan Dow, representing Dott, highlighted his family support and long-standing mental health issues.
Procurator Fiscal Faye Cook expressed that "justice has no time limit" and encouraged victims of historical abuse to come forward.