DAVID BILLIARD EX-POLICE OFFICER AND COACH FROM GREAT BARR JAILED FOR MOLESTATION OF OLYMPIC HOPEFUL IN BIRMINGHAM

In a case that has shocked the local community and cast a dark shadow over the sporting and law enforcement worlds, David Billiard, a former coach at Birchfield Harriers and an ex-police officer, has been sentenced to 18 months in prison for sexually abusing a young athlete. The incident took place in Birmingham, with Billiard residing in Great Barr, and the court proceedings revealed disturbing details about the abuse and the manipulative tactics used by the defendant.

According to court records, Billiard, aged 58, who lived on Dyas Road in Great Barr, was convicted following a trial at Birmingham Crown Court. He faced two charges of sexual assault of a male, which he was found guilty of, while a third charge was dismissed. Billiard, who had consistently denied all allegations, was also ordered to register as a sex offender for a period of ten years. The court heard that the abuse began when the victim was just 12 years old, after Billiard first noticed him during a school sports day event.

The abuse continued over several years, from when the victim was approximately 13 until he was 16, after he had joined Billiard’s club. Prosecutor Peter Grice detailed how Billiard exploited his position of authority, giving the young athlete lifts home, taking him to his own residence for lunch, and subjecting him to naked massages and molestation. The victim, who initially kept silent, believed that Billiard’s authority and status would prevent him from being believed if he spoke out. The court was told that the victim thought that continuing to be coached by Billiard was necessary to achieve his dream of competing in the Olympic Games, and he was willing to do anything Billiard suggested to fulfill that ambition.

Further disturbing revelations emerged during the trial, including trips to Florida with Billiard and another athlete. During one hotel stay, Billiard abused the victim while they shared a bed. The court also heard about an incident at a nightclub, where Billiard, accompanied by another officer, indecently touched the victim after becoming intoxicated. Prosecutor Grice explained that Billiard also gave the victim cash and took him shopping, further manipulating him emotionally and financially. The abuse reportedly ceased after the victim suffered injuries and left the club, marking the end of the troubling relationship.

In delivering his sentence, Judge Simon Drew QC emphasized the seriousness of the offenses, highlighting two significant aggravating factors. He pointed out that Billiard’s breach of trust was particularly egregious, given his role as a coach in his late 20s and early 30s, and the victim was a vulnerable teenage boy. The judge also acknowledged the profound impact the abuse had on the victim’s life, including his relationship with his wife. Despite Billiard’s long service of over 30 years in the police force and the positive testimonials he received, the court recognized the gravity of his misconduct and the betrayal of trust involved in the case.