Tim Westwood Pleads Not Guilty To All 15 Sexual Assault Charges
Tim Westwood, some of the outstanding figures in UK hip-hop broadcasting, appeared in a London courtroom on Monday (December 8) and formally denied each allegation towards him. In accordance with BBC, the 68-year-old entered not responsible pleas to all 15 expenses throughout his listening to at Southwark Crown Courtroom, marking the start of what’s anticipated to be some of the high-profile trials in latest British music historical past.
As HotNewHipHop beforehand reported, the previous BBC Radio 1 and Capital Xtra DJ is accused of 4 counts of rape, 9 counts of indecent assault, and two counts of sexual assault. The accusations contain seven ladies over a span of greater than three many years. Prosecutors say the alleged offenses occurred between 1983 and 2016. Furthermore, masking durations when Westwood was some of the influential gatekeepers in UK rap tradition.
Standing earlier than the choose in a burgundy shirt and black denims, Westwood reportedly clasped his fingers as every cost was learn.
Westwood Appeared In Courtroom
LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 09: Tim Westwood attends the GRM Gala at The V&A on August 9, 2021 in London, England. (Picture by Joseph Okpako/WireImage)
Westwood’s legal professional reiterated his long-standing denial of any wrongdoing. The previous DJ beforehand acknowledged that he “strongly denies all allegations of inappropriate habits.” And his authorized group maintained that place throughout at the moment’s listening to.
The choose granted Westwood conditional bail with strict directions to not contact any witnesses. His pre-trial assessment is scheduled for December 2026, with a full trial date set for January 25, 2027.
Westwood was as soon as a dominant voice in UK hip-hop radio. He interviewed stars like Jay-Z, Eminem, and extra. Nevertheless, Westwood’s popularity unraveled after a number of ladies got here ahead with misconduct claims in 2022. The upcoming trial will decide whether or not the longtime broadcaster’s legacy can face up to probably the most severe expenses of his profession.