Nottinghamshire Police have confirmed that 43-year-old David Coote has been charged with making an indecent video of a child. The offence relates to a Category A video file recovered in February 2025.
Coote, who was officially charged on August 12, appeared before Nottingham Magistrates Court on Thursday, September 11, where he pleaded not guilty. He was granted conditional bail and will return to court on October 9.
The former top-flight referee’s career came to an abrupt end in December 2024 after PGMOL terminated his contract for making offensive comments about Liverpool and then-manager Jürgen Klopp. The incident was deemed a “serious breach” of his employment terms.
Before his sacking, Coote had already faced mounting controversy. In an interview with The Sun, he admitted to drug abuse while struggling with his sexuality, confessing that he “didn’t recognise” himself in the leaked video where he insulted Klopp.
The Football Association (FA) later imposed an eight-week ban on Coote in August 2025, while UEFA suspended him from officiating until June 30, 2026, after photos emerged of him snorting a white powder during Euro 2024 duties.
With his refereeing career over and facing serious legal charges, Coote’s future remains in jeopardy as the court date looms.
