BBC sacked Scott Mills after learning alleged victim in police investigation was under 16
BBC sacked Scott Mills after learning alleged victim in police investigation was under 16
The BBC has terminated Scott Mills’ contract following new revelations that the individual at the center of a police inquiry was under the age of sixteen. While the BBC’s management team in 2017 may not have been aware of the victim’s age, recent developments prompted current executives to take decisive action last week.
BBC’s statement on the sacking
A BBC spokesperson said: “Scott Mills had a long career across the BBC, he was hugely popular and we know the news this week has come as a shock and surprise to many. We also recognise there’s been much speculation in the media and online since Monday. We hope people understand that there is a limit to what we can say because we have to be mindful of the rights of those involved. What we can confirm is that in recent weeks, we obtained new information relating to Scott and we spoke directly with him. As a result, the BBC acted decisively in line with our culture and values and terminated his contracts on Friday 27 March.”
Scott Mills’ response
“The recent announcement that I am no longer contracted to the BBC has led to the publication of rumour and speculation,” Mills stated. “In response to this the Metropolitan Police has made a statement, which I confirm relates to me. An allegation was made against me in 2016 of a historic sexual offence which was the subject of a police investigation in which I fully cooperated and responded to in 2018. As the police have stated, a file of evidence was submitted to the Crown Prosecution Service, which determined that the evidential threshold had not been met to bring charges.”
Mills’ statement does not address the substance of the allegations, provide further details, or offer a denial. He also refrained from explaining the circumstances of his dismissal from the BBC. The news of his sacking sparked surprise among listeners and increased demands for clarity from the broadcaster.
The Met Police confirmed that the investigation centered on serious sexual offences against a teenage boy under sixteen, with the incidents reportedly occurring between 1997 and 2000. At the time, Mills would have been in his mid-20s. The inquiry was concluded in 2019 without any charges being filed.
Mills’ final appearance on Radio 2’s breakfast show was on Tuesday, March 24, where he concluded with: “Back tomorrow.” The following day, DJ Gary Davies took over the show, stating he was “in for Scott Mills.” Davies and overnight presenter OJ Borg will continue hosting the program for the next week as speculation grows about his replacement.
