Former Premier League Referee David Coote Pleads Guilty to Making Indecent Image of a Child

Former Premier League referee David Coote has entered a guilty plea at Nottingham Crown Court for making an indecent image of a child. The 43-year-old ex-official appeared in court on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, in connection with a category A video, the most serious kind, recovered by police in February.

During the six-minute hearing, Coote spoke only to confirm his name and enter his plea. He was granted conditional bail by Judge Nirmal Shant KC and ordered to appear in court again on December 11. The judge has requested a pre-sentence report to be carried out before Coote’s sentencing, citing the seriousness of the matter.

Details of the Case

• Charge: Making an indecent image of a child (category A video)
• Date of Recovery: February 2025
• Court: Nottingham Crown Court
• Judge: Nirmal Shant KC
• Next Hearing: December 11, 2025

Consequences and Backlash

This guilty plea comes after Coote was sacked by Professional Game Match Officials Limited in December last year. The decision followed the emergence of a video featuring Coote’s comments about former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp in 2020. In August this year, he received an eight-week suspension from the Football Association over the same matter.

The outcome of this case will determine whether Coote will face custody or not. The court’s decision is pending the completion of the pre-sentence report.

Reactions and Implications

The guilty plea has sparked widespread concern and disappointment, given Coote’s prominent role in English football. The case highlights the importance of accountability and the severe consequences for individuals convicted of such offenses.

As the football community awaits the final verdict, Coote’s case serves as a reminder of the gravity of such offenses and the impact on both the accused and the victims. The court will carefully consider all information before delivering the sentence on December 11.