Gerry Carson, the former president of Athletics Northern Ireland, has been registered as a sex offender after changing his plea to guilty on a child sexual abuse charge at Belfast Crown Court. According to BBC News, the 84-year-old from Kingsway, Dunmurry in County Antrim entered his guilty plea on Thursday morning and will face sentencing in January 2027.
Carson's change of plea marks a significant development in the case. He had initially denied the charge of sexual touching of a child when the proceedings began, but reversed his position during Thursday's hearing at Belfast Crown Court. The offences in question took place between 2022 and 2024.
At an earlier hearing in October, Carson had already pleaded guilty to two separate charges of stalking. His guilty plea on Thursday to the child sex offence means a trial will no longer proceed, with the court now focused on preparing for sentencing in the new year.
When re-arraigned on Thursday morning, Carson, dressed in a shirt, tie, jumper and jacket, responded "guilty" to the charge. The judge emphasised the importance of Carson engaging with both the Probation Board and his legal representatives during the weeks leading up to sentencing.
Medical assessments are currently being compiled to examine various aspects of Carson's health and condition. These reports will address geriatric medicine, cognitive function and a broader medical picture to inform the sentencing decision.
A separate charge of causing a child to engage in sexual activity remains on the court record but is not being actively pursued at present. This charge can be reactivated or pursued at a later date if circumstances warrant it.
Following his guilty plea, Carson was placed on the sex offenders register with immediate effect. He was released on continuing bail pending his sentencing hearing in January 2027.
