Former president of Athletics NI pleads guilty to child sex abuse charge
BBCA former president of Athletics Northern Ireland has been put on the sex offenders register after pleading guilty to a child sex offence at Belfast Crown Court.
Gerry Carson, 84, from Kingsway, Dunmurry in County Antrim, changed his plea on Thursday morning.
Carson had previously pleaded not guilty to the charge of sexual touching of a child.
At a previous hearing in October, Carson pleaded guilty to two charges of stalking.
He will be sentenced in January 2027.
The offences happened between 2022 and 2024.
Another charge of causing a child to engage in sexual activity has been left on the books.
That means it's not actively being proceeded with, but can be reactivated or pursued at a later date if required.
Carson who was wearing a shirt, tie, jumper and jacket in the courtroom replied "guilty" when re-arraigned on Thursday morning.
The court heard a trial will no longer be required and Carson's sentence would be determined in the new year.
Given his plea at Belfast Crown Court, Carson was put on the sex offenders register with immediate effect.
The judge told Carson it would be important for him to engage with both the Probation Board and his legal teams in the coming weeks.
The court heard medical reports were being put together, looking at issues around geriatric medicine, cognitive function and a wider medical picture.
He was released on continuing bail until sentencing.
Carson was president of Athletics NI between 2019 and 2024. In a statement, they said their thoughts are with "the victims, their families and all those affected.
"Safeguarding is an absolute priority for Athletics NI. We provide comprehensive support to clubs to help them provide a safe environment for everyone involved in athletics."
Carson was also on the board of the Sports Council - which is now Sport NI from 2000-2007. He was vice-chair of the body from 2003-2007.
A spokesperson from Sport NI told BBC News NI they are "not aware of any allegations relating to him while in his role as a board member."
They added that "they would encourage anyone who has experienced abuse, or wishes to report abuse to speak to the PSNI."