James Rowe, former Chesterfield manager, faces court for sexual assault

James Rowe, a former football manager, appeared in Derby Crown Court facing charges of sexual assault, stemming from an incident alleged to have occurred on November 24, 2021. The trial, which has faced significant delays over the past two years due to various issues, is now scheduled to begin on October 7, 2023, and is expected to last around five days. Rowe, who has pleaded not guilty, confirmed that his partner had to take a day off work to care for their children so he could attend the hearing. The court proceedings have been complicated by a series of setbacks, including the illness of a prosecutor, a malfunctioning court heating system, and language barriers affecting jurors. During the latest hearing, Judge Shaun Smith KC expressed frustration over the prolonged nature of the case and emphasized the importance of moving forward with the trial. He insisted that a definitive witness list be provided by the defense by the end of the week. Rowe's football career spanned from 2001 to 2013, during which he played for several clubs, including Ilkeston Town and Grantham Town. He took on the managerial role at Chesterfield FC in November 2020 but was suspended in January 2022 following the allegations against him. After being charged, he briefly worked with AFC Fylde but resigned the day after the charges were confirmed. The upcoming trial is crucial not only for Rowe but also for the individual making the allegations, as it seeks to bring clarity and resolution to a case that has lingered for too long. The court is determined to ensure that the trial proceeds as scheduled, highlighting the need for justice in such serious matters.