Gary Glitter Pleads Not Guilty to Historical Child Sex Offenses
Former pop star Gary Glitter, born Paul Gadd, pleaded not guilty on September 2, 2026, to eight counts of historical sexual abuse against a young girl. Appearing via videolink from HMP Channings Wood in Devon to Southwark Crown Court, the 82-year-old denied charges involving indecent assault and sexual intercourse occurring between 1978 and 1981, according to reporting from The Mirror.
Details of the Allegations and Court Proceedings
The charges center on the abuse of a girl starting when she was eight years old in 1978. According to The Mirror, the prosecution alleges that Glitter provided the child with chocolate and repeatedly abused her at his residence in Kensington, West London. The case covers at least 20 separate incidents over a three-year period.
The specific charges Glitter faces include:
- Four counts of indecent assault on a child aged between eight and 11.
- Two counts of sexual intercourse with a child.
- Two counts of indecency with a child.
The Mirror reports that two of the indecent assault charges involve allegations that Glitter touched the complainant’s thigh and smelled her hair. During the hearing, Glitter—wearing a grey beanie, blue shirt, and glasses—responded “absolutely not guilty” and “not guilty” to the counts after confirming his identity.
Timeline of the Investigation
The Metropolitan Police stated that these specific allegations first came to light on January 9 last year. Following the initial report, police interviewed Glitter on July 22, 2025, in relation to the investigation, according to The Mirror.
Career Background of Paul Gadd
Paul Gadd performed under the stage name Gary Glitter and became one of the biggest stars of his time in the early 1970s. According to The Mirror, he sold 18 million records within a five-year window. His chart success included hits such as “Rock And Roll (Parts One And Two),” “I’m The Leader Of The Gang (I Am),” and “Do You Wanna Touch Me.” His final appearance in the UK top 40 occurred in 1984 with the release of “Another Rock And Roll Christmas.”