John Marshall, 71 of Longbenton, North Tyneside, is currently on trial at Newcastle Crown Court after his arrest in January 2017. The former football coach has denied 11 charges of indecent assault on five boys dating back to the late 1970’s and 1980’s.
Marshall was arrested as part of Northumbria Police’s Operation Tide which is an ongoing investigation into allegations of child abuse at football clubs in the North East.
The court heard how Marshall, a former football coach, abused his position by allegedly sexually assaulting a 14-year-old boy who attended private coaching lessons offered by Marshall in a bid to improve his game. Marshall also formerly managed a football team and it is alleged that he carried out the offences against his young victims in his van or at a venue where he gave the one-to-one training sessions.
As well as being trusted by the children themselves, Marshall was also trusted by their parents and it is this alleged gross breach of trust that exacerbates these types of offences. The court heard that the boys had been too afraid to tell anyone.
His alleged victims may be entitled to compensation from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) and/or they may also be able to present a civil claim. Here at Farleys we are able to assist with both and we currently act for numerous victims of abuse at the hands of football coaches.
If you or someone you know has been affected by abuse by a football coach or other sporting coach or mentor, we are here to help. Our specialist and dedicated team would be happy to speak with you in the strictest of confidence. Call our dedicated Abuse Line on 0330 134 6430 or complete our online contact form.
