Barrie Drewitt-Barlow Sued for Child Sex Trafficking

Barrie Drewitt-Barlow, known for appearing on the reality show “Below Deck Sailing Yacht,” is facing serious allegations. A man claiming to be his distant relative has filed a lawsuit accusing him of sex trafficking and sexual abuse that allegedly began when the man was just 16 years old.

According to documents obtained by TMZ, in 2014 Barrie offered the teenager a job and a place to live. After the young man accepted, Drewitt-Barlow allegedly began sexually abusing him. The incidents allegedly took place in the United Kingdom, several other countries, and multiple U.S. states, including New Jersey, where the plaintiff says he lived with Barrie for a period of time.

The plaintiff also claims that Barrie plied him with alcohol despite his underage status. The man recalls often waking up with “cloudy memories of being sexually abused” and not understanding how he got to a location or why his penis was bleeding. He further alleges that Barrie took and posted naked photos and videos of him on social media without consent.

According to the lawsuit, the man tried to leave Barrie multiple times but, lacking resources, returned and was severely punished for attempting to run away. The lawsuit includes charges of child sex trafficking, child sex abuse, sexual assault, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. The accuser is seeking at least $25 million in compensatory damages.

It’s worth noting that earlier this year, Barrie Drewitt-Barlow was arrested and charged with rape, sexual assault, and other sex-related crimes for alleged offenses that prosecutors say occurred between 2013 and 2026 in the UK. Additionally, last year, federal agents raided the home of his ex-husband, Anthony Drewitt-Barlow. At the time, a spokesperson said that anyone with knowledge of potential sex trafficking victims should call the tip line.

The plaintiff’s lawyers, Laura Laughlin and Doug Fierberg, told TMZ: “This case is about the calculated use of wealth, influence, and power to gain the trust of a vulnerable child, to silence that child, and subject him to years of sexual abuse and exploitation. Our client has shown extraordinary courage in coming forward. No amount of money or status should ever shield someone from accountability for crimes against children and this lawsuit seeks to ensure that it does not.”

The news of the lawsuit has sparked widespread discussion among fans and the public. Many are questioning how such allegations could be made against someone who was a public figure and appeared on television. The case again raises concerns about the safety and protection of minors from sexual abuse, especially when the accused holds a high social status.