Former BBC presenter questioned by police after sexual assault claim
The accused household name hosted a much-loved BBC programme.
A former BBC presenter has undergone police probing over an accusation of sexual assault, according to The Sun. An anonymous woman has claimed that the unnamed star, who hosted a "much-loved" programme, touched her inappropriately on set. According to a source, he has denied the allegation, which is said to have taken place around 20 years ago.
The insider told the outlet: "It’s quite shocking," and revealed that the celebrity was "stunned" to learn that he was being investigated for the alleged sexual assault, sources claim. The TV star was reportedly quizzed under caution by detectives in May for the alleged crime, which is claimed to have occurred on the London set of his popular show between 2005 and 2006.
According to the source, the household name, who is said to have been a face on the BBC for decades, "completely and utterly refutes" the allegation. The BBC is aware of the police investigation, the latest scandal to rock the broadcaster.
The insider said: "The case is quite shocking, and the star involved was stunned when told about the investigation. But he cooperated and went in for the interview under caution at an arranged time and place. The alleged victim now lives outside London, and her case was referred to the Met from an outside force, which caused a bit of a delay.
"The claims are linked to his time working on the show, and she’s believed to have either worked with him or been a contestant. Police have taken her complaint very seriously. They are doing everything they can to investigate, although it dates back 20 years."
The source added: "The presenter has not been arrested at this stage, but if he is, and if he’s charged, it will be a real bombshell. However, he maintains there’s no case to answer."
The Met police confirmed to The Sun that it was “investigating a report of sexual assault against a woman which took place in Stratford between September 2005 and December 2006”.
They continued: “On Thursday, 14 May, a man was interviewed under caution. We remain in contact with the woman, and she continues to be supported by officers. Enquiries remain ongoing, and no arrests have been made at this stage.” Express has contacted the BBC for a comment.
