Barrie Drewitt-Barlow, aged 57, along with his partner Scott Drewitt-Barlow, aged 32, who are recognized as the first gay surrogate parents in Britain, are facing serious accusations of rape and grooming young men for sexual exploitation. The couple, residents of Danbury, Essex, are also under scrutiny for various charges including sexual assault, rape, and trafficking for sexual exploitation.
During a court appearance at Chelmsford Crown Court, the duo did not enter any pleas as they were informed about the charges. The prosecution, led by Louise Oakley KC, disclosed that a trial is scheduled to commence on January 18, 2027, with an anticipated duration of eight to 10 weeks.
These high-profile individuals, known for their affluent lifestyles and appearances in documentaries and reality TV shows, own the Maldon and Tiptree football club along with other business ventures in Essex and abroad. The allegations suggest that they have targeted, recruited, and befriended young males, enticing them to their residence and other locations.
Barrie Drewitt-Barlow, who gained fame as Britain’s pioneer gay surrogate parent in 1999, is facing charges including sexual assault, rape, and facilitation of travel for exploitation purposes. Similarly, Scott Drewitt-Barlow is accused of sexual assault, rape, and facilitating travel for exploitation.
Additional charges have been brought against both individuals by Essex Police. Barrie Drewitt-Barlow is facing 15 more alleged offenses, including sexual activity with a child, paying for sexual services of a child, rape, sexual assault, and causing someone to engage in non-consensual sexual activity. Meanwhile, Scott Drewitt-Barlow has been charged with two counts of rape and one count of causing or inciting sexual activity.
The proceedings are expected to continue with a further hearing on September 7 to obtain their pleas regarding the charges.
