Tim Westwood, the former BBC Radio 1 DJ and host of Pimp My Ride, has been formally charged with multiple sexual offences involving seven women. The Metropolitan Police have confirmed that the allegations span from 1983 to 2016 and include four counts of rape, nine counts of indecent assault, and two counts of sexual assault. The 68-year-old is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on Monday, November 10, to respond to these charges.
Among the accusations, Westwood is alleged to have indecently assaulted a 17-year-old girl in Fulham, London, in 1983, and sexually assaulted a woman in her twenties in Vauxhall in 1986. Between 1995 and 1996, he faces charges of rape and sexual assault involving a woman aged between 17 and 18. Further allegations include the rape and sexual assault of a woman aged 17 to 18 between 2000 and 2001, as well as the rape of a woman in her twenties in 2010, with all incidents reportedly occurring in London.
Additional claims state that Westwood sexually assaulted a woman in her twenties in Stroud, Gloucestershire, in 2010, and another woman in her twenties in Finchley, London, in 2016.
Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy of the Metropolitan Police emphasized the bravery of those who have come forward: “Reporting such allegations requires immense courage. We are committed to supporting the women who have trusted us with their stories.” He added that the investigation remains ongoing and encouraged anyone affected or with relevant information to contact the dedicated team at [email protected]. All communications will be handled confidentially by specialist officers.
Lionel Idan, Chief Crown Prosecutor, stated: “The Crown Prosecution Service has determined there is sufficient evidence to prosecute Tim Westwood for serious sexual offences. Pursuing this case is in the public interest.” He also reminded the public that the legal process is active and that Westwood is entitled to a fair trial.
In 2022, a joint inquiry by The Guardian and BBC revealed multiple allegations of sexual misconduct against Westwood, which he has consistently denied. Six women shared their experiences in the BBC Three documentary Abuse of Power. Following a review, the BBC Board issued an apology, acknowledging that the corporation failed to take adequate action after concerns about Westwood’s conduct were raised.
Westwood has repeatedly denied all claims of inappropriate behaviour and stepped down from his Capital Xtra show in April 2022 amid the allegations.
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