HUGH STEVENSON AND SCOTLAND: FORMER YOUTH COACH AND REFEREE ACCUSED OF CHILD SEX OFFENCES POSTHUMOUSLY

HUGH STEVENSON AND SCOTLAND: FORMER YOUTH COACH AND REFEREE ACCUSED OF CHILD SEX OFFENCES POSTHUMOUSLY

Hugh Stevenson, a former youth football coach and referee who has since passed away, has been accused of multiple child sex offences.

Despite allegations and police investigations dating back to the early 1990s, Stevenson continued to coach in Scottish youth football.

A BBC Scotland investigation revealed that reports had been made to both police and the Scottish Football Association (SFA), yet he persisted in coaching for several years afterward, including roles with Ferguslie United and Cowdenbeath.

One victim, Pete Haynes, recounted being sexually abused by Stevenson between 1979 and 1982 after being groomed with promises of a trip to a cup final.

Mr.

Haynes stated, "he had been groomed by Mr Stevenson with the promise of big time football and a trip to a cup final, then repeatedly abused." The Scottish FA issued an apology to Mr.

Haynes for their handling of the situation.

Police Scotland confirmed investigations took place in 1993 and 1996, but it appears no cases advanced to trial.

Additional victims have come forward since, including one man who reported an assault in 1968 at Eastercraigs club, where Stevenson was involved.

Former players and officials such as Kevin Hutchison confirmed that Stevenson was active in coaching and scouting roles during the 1990s.

Critics and football officials, including Gordon McDougall, condemned the continued employment of Stevenson after allegations emerged, criticizing the lack of immediate action.

The BBC uncovered that Stevenson was listed as an official referee from 1964 to 1983 and was associated with Boys' Clubs in Glasgow for many years before being asked to leave due to attempting inappropriate contact.

The investigation highlighted that Stevenson was permitted to coach young players well after reports surfaced, with little to no intervention at the time.

Currently, police and football authorities are re-examining the handling of past reports, as more victims come forward and additional evidence emerges.