Police have raided the Essex mansion of reality TV star and Britain’s first openly gay football club owner, Barrie Drewitt-Barlow, as part of an investigation into alleged rape and human trafficking for sexual exploitation.
Details of the Raids and Arrests
Officers forced entry into the property near Danbury by breaking through a wooden fence. Forensic teams scoured the modern home along a country lane, with multiple police vehicles on the driveway. Searches also targeted locations in nearby Braintree and Maldon, including the clubhouse and stadium of Maldon & Tiptree FC, which Drewitt-Barlow purchased last February.
Essex Police confirmed the arrests of two men from Danbury—a 57-year-old and a 32-year-old—on suspicion of rape, human trafficking for sexual exploitation, and administering a noxious substance. Both remain in custody for questioning.
Official Police Statement
A police spokesman stated: “Detectives leading an investigation into human trafficking for sexual exploitation, rape, and other sexual offenses conducted coordinated searches of premises in Danbury, Maldon, and Braintree on Wednesday, May 6. Searches continue at all locations.”
Detective Inspector Lydia George, leading the probe, added: “If anyone has information to share, contact us via the Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP). The investigation team will provide specialist support as needed.”
Drewitt-Barlow’s Background and Upcoming Project
Drewitt-Barlow, 55, shares the plush home with husband Scott. He gained fame in 1999 as one of the UK’s first gay couples to have children via surrogacy. The entrepreneur has appeared on shows like Rich House, Poor House and Below Deck Sailing Yacht.
He features in the upcoming ITV4 series Up The Jammers, a six-part documentary similar to Welcome to Wrexham. Cameras followed his first year owning Maldon & Tiptree, who won the Isthmian League North title this season. The show highlights their goal to reach the English Football League in four years.
Past Comments on Gay Footballers
Drewitt-Barlow has spoken about approaches from closeted Premier League players seeking advice. He stated: “I’ve already been classed as the poster boy for gay parenting or surrogacy and it doesn’t get anybody anywhere. I don’t think people want to [come out] because they’re scared about what might happen in the dressing room, as well as on the pitch. The only people that can truly help and make it more normalised are the leagues and the FA.”
