Essex football club issues statement after owners charged with sex offences
Club urges halt to bad behaviour towards players and fans
An Essex football club want the abuse aimed at their players and fans to stop after their owners were charged with sex offences.
Barrie, 57, and Scott-Drewitt Barlow, 32, who took over Maldon and Tiptree FC in 2025, are accused of crimes such as rape and modern slavery trafficking.
The pair are due at Chelmsford Crown Court on 5th June.
A statement from the club read: "The Club expresses its sympathy towards all victims of sexual offences and recognises the seriousness and sensitivity of matters of this kind.
"At the same time, it is important to note that criminal proceedings are ongoing and the legal process must be allowed to proceed fairly and properly.
"The Club, its ownership, players, staff, volunteers, supporters and sponsors should not be subjected to abuse, threats or harassment in relation to matters unconnected to them. In recent days, some members of staff have experienced unacceptable behaviour both online and in person, and the Club respectfully asks that this behaviour ceases immediately.
"As proceedings remain ongoing, it would be inappropriate for the Club to comment further at this stage. The Club recognises that all individuals are entitled to a fair legal process.
"Maldon & Tiptree Football Club remains fully focused on continuing its positive progress both on and off the pitch. "
It also said that Aspen Drewitt-Barlow was the "sole shareholder and controlling owner" of the club and he remained "fully committed" to its future.