Jurors at the High Court in Glasgow have heard closing arguments in the child abuse trial of former world snooker champion Graeme Dott. The 49-year-old faces accusations of lewd and libidinous behaviour towards a girl and a boy spanning from 1993 to 2010. He has consistently denied all charges throughout the proceedings.
Prosecutor Lindsey Dalziel characterised the witnesses as "brave and compelling," arguing they had provided evidence demonstrating that Dott had preyed upon the children. In contrast, Dott's defence lawyer Euan Dow cautioned jurors against allowing emotions to influence their verdict, urging them to base their decision on facts rather than "hunches" or "suspicions."
What did the prosecution argue?
During an hour-long address to the jury, Dalziel contended that Dott had "subjected vulnerable children to the worst kinds of abuse" for his own gratification. She acknowledged that the evidence presented had been difficult to hear, as it involved descriptions of "real, very graphic childhood sexual abuse."
The advocate depute detailed the testimony of the woman now in her 40s, who made multiple allegations including inappropriate touching and exposure. Dalziel stated:
She was a straightforward and calm witness. She did not exaggerate or embellish.
Regarding the man now in his 20s, the prosecutor described his evidence as equally "straightforward and not contrived." According to the allegations, abuse began shortly after Dott became world champion in May 2006. The alleged conduct included molestation in a shower at a Lanarkshire property, being given a £50 note as part of a "reward strategy," and being groped while Dott played online poker.
Dalziel highlighted "significant similarities" between the accounts provided by each witness, suggesting a pattern of behaviour.
What was the defence argument?
Dott's lawyer emphasised that the former champion "need not prove one thing" and that he remains "presumed innocent" under law. Euan Dow argued that evidence from both accusers should be treated with "caution."
The defence counsel discussed how the woman had eventually disclosed her allegations to multiple people over time. He suggested that if someone is not truthful, repeating a false account to numerous individuals does not make it more credible. Dow stated:
Experience tells us that sometimes complainers do lie.
The lawyer requested that Dott's denials during his testimony be "accepted" and contended that prosecutors had failed to prove their case "beyond reasonable doubt."
What has Dott said about the allegations?
Throughout the trial, Dott has repeatedly rejected the accusations against him. When giving evidence on 20 August 2026, he denied the allegations in court, and he has branded the claims as "disgusting."
What is the background to this case?
Dott's trial began on 17 August 2026 before Lord Harrower at the High Court in Glasgow. The allegations span 1993 to 1996 for the girl and 2006 to 2010 for the boy, both in the Glasgow region. The boy's allegations were reported as involving conduct starting when he was around 7 years old.
Dott was suspended by the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association after being charged in 2025. A court hearing in 2025 set the trial date and continued his bail conditions pending trial.
What happens next?
The trial was scheduled to continue after 18 August 2026 before Lord Harrower, with the jury expected to begin deliberations following the closing arguments. The outcome of the case will determine whether Dott faces conviction on the charges brought against him.
