Former England striker Andy Carroll has found himself back in the headlines — but this time for reasons far removed from football.
The 36-year-old ex-Premier League forward is currently facing serious legal trouble after being formally charged with breaching a non-molestation order, an offence that carries the possibility of a prison sentence if he is found guilty.
According to police sources, Carroll was arrested in April 2025 at Stansted Airport shortly after arriving in the United Kingdom from France.
The arrest is linked to an alleged incident said to have taken place in March, although specific details surrounding the case have not been made public due to legal restrictions currently in place.
Authorities have confirmed that the matter is being handled through the courts, with strict limits on what can be disclosed at this stage.
Essex Police later issued an official statement confirming that Carroll has been charged in relation to the alleged breach.
They also revealed that the former England international, who is registered as living in Epping, is scheduled to appear before Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on December 30. The outcome of that hearing could prove pivotal in determining the next chapter of his life, both personally and professionally.
In the UK, breaching a non-molestation order is treated as a criminal offence rather than a civil matter. Depending on the severity of the breach and the circumstances surrounding it, the charge can result in significant penalties, including a custodial sentence of up to five years. Legal experts often stress that such orders are enforced strictly, with courts taking any alleged violation very seriously.
The situation marks a striking contrast to Carroll’s once-glittering football career. During his peak years, he was a familiar figure in the Premier League, representing clubs such as Newcastle United and Liverpool, and earning international recognition with appearances for England.
Known for his physical presence and aerial ability, Carroll was once considered one of the most imposing strikers in English football.
In recent years, however, his career has taken a very different path. Carroll is currently playing outside the professional leagues, turning out for Dagenham & Redbridge in the National League South.
While the move represented a continuation of his love for the game, his impending court appearance now threatens to overshadow his on-field efforts entirely.
As the legal process unfolds, many fans and observers are left reflecting on the dramatic shift in Carroll’s fortunes.
From packed stadiums and international call-ups to legal uncertainty and the risk of jail time, the former England forward now faces one of the most challenging periods of his life. The coming weeks — and particularly his appearance in court — are likely to determine how this chapter ultimately ends.
