Scott Mills Breaks Silence After BBC Sacking Over Past Police Investigation
Former BBC Radio 2 presenter Scott Mills has issued his first public statement after being sacked by the broadcaster, directly addressing a past police investigation into alleged sexual offences. In a statement released through his lawyers, Mills expressed frustration over the "rumour and speculation" that followed his sudden exit from the BBC.
Details of the Allegations and Investigation
Mills confirmed he was the person at the centre of the probe, noting that an allegation made in 2016 was investigated by police. He stated he had "fully cooperated" with authorities throughout the process. The Crown Prosecution Service concluded there was insufficient evidence to bring charges, and the case was officially closed in 2019.
The Metropolitan Police launched the investigation in 2016 into allegations of serious sexual offences involving a teenage boy under 16, said to have occurred between 1997 and 2000. Mills was questioned under caution in 2018, but prosecutors later ruled that the evidential threshold had not been met, resulting in no charges being filed. The identity of the alleged victim has not been made public.
BBC's Decision and Internal Review
The BBC terminated Mills' contract last week after receiving "new information" in recent weeks, despite being aware of the investigation as early as 2017. A spokesperson said the broadcaster acted "decisively" in line with its internal standards and culture reforms. The BBC is now reviewing what was known internally about the case after it emerged the organisation had been aware of the probe years earlier.
The broadcaster reiterated its commitment to improving workplace culture and stated that action would be taken when standards are not met. Mills' final show aired in March, after which he was abruptly taken off air. He had signed off saying "back tomorrow," but did not return.
Career Impact and Fallout
Despite the investigation being closed, Mills continued his rise within the BBC and went on to host the Radio 2 Breakfast Show, one of the UK's most prominent broadcasting slots. Separately, a children's charity he was associated with has also parted ways with him following the controversy.
In his statement, Mills emphasized that the allegation dates back nearly three decades and the investigation was closed years ago. He hopes the public will respect his decision not to comment further. He also expressed gratitude, saying, "I wish to thank... my former colleagues and my beloved listeners, who I greatly miss."
