Chesterfield's former manager James Rowe has been found not guilty of sexual assault. The verdict was delivered after a 7-day trial at Derby Crown Court.

What happened?

Rowe, 41, was charged with one count of sexual assault in September 2022 and pleaded not guilty. He was suspended by Chesterfield on January 24, 2022, pending an investigation into allegations of misconduct.

Background

Rowe was appointed Chesterfield manager in November 2020 after leaving National League North side Gloucester City. He took Chesterfield to sixth place in the National League in his first season before losing to Notts County in the play-offs.

Current context

As of June 26, 2026, Chesterfield stands 6th in League Two with 79 points from 46 games, having scored 71 goals and conceded 56. Their recent form has been DLWWD, with the last result being a 0-0 draw against Notts County on May 15, 2026. | Category | Value | | --- | --- | | League standing | 6th | | Points | 79 | | Goals scored | 71 | | Goals conceded | 56 | | Recent form | DLWWD | | Last result | Notts County 0-0 Chesterfield |

What's next?

The verdict brings closure to a case that led to Rowe's departure from Chesterfield in February 2022. He later resigned as manager of AFC Fylde in September 2022 after being charged with sexual assault.