A Chester County judge has denied a request from Scottish national Alan Bromly to travel back to the United Kingdom while he faces serious charges related to the welfare of his young son. The ruling was made on October 23, 2023, during a brief hearing presided over by Common Pleas Judge Sarah Black.
Bromly is accused of allowing his 2-year-old son to come into contact with cocaine, which was reportedly found in a child’s sippy cup and a baby bottle in his home. His attorney, Evan Kelly, argued that Bromly sought to visit Scotland to reconnect with family and search for employment, stating, “He wants to go to Scotland to be around people he loves.” Bromly, who holds a green card allowing him to stay in the U.S. indefinitely, expressed concern about his inability to provide for his son during this challenging time.
First Assistant District Attorney Erin O’Brien opposed the travel request, emphasizing the seriousness of the charges and the risk that Bromly may not return for his trial. “These are very serious charges,” O’Brien stated, referencing medical records indicating the child had ingested cocaine. She highlighted concerns regarding Bromly’s potential flight risk, noting that if allowed to leave, there would be no legal measures to ensure his return.
The case arose from an incident on May 29, 2023, when emergency services were called to Bromly’s apartment following reports of an unresponsive child. Authorities found the boy limp and covered in vomit, and he was subsequently taken to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. After treatment, tests revealed cocaine in his system. According to an arrest affidavit from Uwchlan Police Department Detective Sergeant James Hall, Bromly’s estranged wife indicated that he had previously used cocaine and had left drugs in areas accessible to their son.
During the hearing, Kelly shared that Bromly came to the United States to coach youth soccer and had been affiliated with the Scottish Gold & Gray Soccer Academy. However, he was dismissed from his coaching position following his arrest. Kelly noted that Bromly is actively pursuing recovery from his substance abuse issues.
While Judge Black recognized Bromly’s desire to reconnect with family, she ultimately decided against granting the travel request. “I am sure a familial system would be good for you,” she remarked, indicating that Bromly would need to find alternative ways to maintain family connections during his legal proceedings.
As Bromly awaits trial, the case remains a significant point of concern, reflecting broader issues of child welfare and the legal implications of substance abuse. The decision to deny his travel request underlines the court’s priorities in ensuring accountability and protecting the welfare of vulnerable individuals.