Detectives investigating non-recent sexual abuse allegations against former BBC Radio 1 DJ Tim Westwood have submitted evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to determine whether charges should be filed.
The investigation follows a 2022 joint report by BBC News and The Guardian, in which multiple women accused Westwood, 66, of predatory behavior, unwanted sexual contact, and misuse of his influence within the music industry.
These allegations span from 1992 to 2017, covering his peak years as a prominent hip-hop DJ.
Westwood has consistently denied the allegations since they were first published.
Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, leading the investigation, confirmed that detectives continue to conduct inquiries and provide specialist support to those who have come forward.
“A file of evidence has now been submitted to the Crown Prosecution Service, and our team continues to make enquiries,” Furphy stated, emphasizing the commitment to thoroughly investigating sexual offenses to help make London safer for women and girls.
According to the CPS, the file relates to alleged non-recent sexual offenses involving a man in his 60s.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that Westwood has been interviewed under caution on four occasions concerning alleged offenses occurring in London between 1982 and 2016.
However, the investigation has not received assistance from the Hydrant Programme, a national initiative for handling high-profile child sexual abuse cases, as it stands.
The Met Police have described the investigation as “complex and sensitive,” prioritizing victim support and maintaining the integrity of the case while avoiding “jigsaw identification” of the victims.
In August 2022, the BBC commissioned an external review, led by barrister Gemma White KC, to scrutinize Westwood’s nearly 20-year employment with the broadcaster.
This review followed revelations that the BBC had received six historical complaints of bullying or sexual misconduct against him.
Although initially expected to conclude within six months, the report remains unpublished.
Last month, the Met Police cautioned the BBC against releasing portions of the review, warning that it might “interfere with justice.”
The BBC has since declined to comment on the matter. A Freedom of Information request by BBC News earlier this year revealed that the broadcaster has invested over £3 million into the review.
Tim Westwood, who rose to prominence hosting Radio 1’s influential rap show and a drivetime slot on 1Xtra, moved to Capital Xtra in 2013.
He also hosted MTV’s Pimp My Ride UK in 2005.
Throughout the ongoing investigation, he has continued to deny any misconduct, labeling the accusations as “false allegations.”
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