MALDON and Tiptree have issued a statement following ongoing legal proceedings involving 'two individuals connected to the football club'.
Club owners Barrie and Scott Drewitt-Barlow appeared in court last week charged with human trafficking for sexual exploitation and rape.
The defendants were charged last Thursday night and driven to Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on Friday morning when they confirmed their names, ages, and dates of birth.
Cowleys spark Colchester crowd revival as U’s home gates soar
Defence barrister Oliver Snodin said the duo "strenuously denied" the allegations.
The case will be transferred to Chelmsford Crown Court where the Drewitt-Barlows will be asked to enter formal pleas on Friday, June 5.
Maldon and Tiptree confirm in the statement that Aspen Drewitt-Barlow remains the club’s sole shareholder and controlling owner and is ‘fully committed’ to the club’s ‘continued stability, operation and future development’.
The Jammers, who won promotion as Pitching In Isthmian League division north champions this season, also state that they are fulfilling their ‘football, community and commercial commitments.’
— Maldon & Tiptree FC (@MaldonTiptreeFC) May 12, 2026
The statement reads: ‘Maldon & Tiptree Football Club is aware of the recent events and ongoing legal proceedings involving two individuals connected to the football club.
‘Aspen Drewitt-Barlow acquired the football club on 4 February 2025 and remains the Club's sole shareholder and controlling owner.
‘He remains fully committed to the continued stability, operation and future development of Maldon & Tiptree Football Club.
‘The Club continues to fulfil its football, community and commercial commitments.
League Two club make permanent head coach announcement
‘Given the nature of the allegations, the Club expresses its sympathy towards all victims of sexual offences and recognises the seriousness and sensitivity of matters of this kind.
'At the same time, it is important to note that criminal proceedings are ongoing and the legal process must be allowed to proceed fairly and properly.
‘The Club, its ownership, players, staff, volunteers, supporters and sponsors should not be subjected to abuse, threats or harassment in relation to matters unconnected to them.
'In recent days, some members of staff have experienced unacceptable behaviour both online and in person, and the Club respectfully asks that this behaviour ceases immediately.
‘As proceedings remain ongoing, it would be inappropriate for the Club to comment further at this stage. The Club recognises that all individuals are entitled to a fair legal process.
‘Maldon & Tiptree Football Club remains fully focused on continuing its positive progress both on and off the pitch.
‘Maldon & Tiptree Football Club’
Share