British hip-hop DJ Tim Westwood, a veteran of the music scene, has been formally charged with several counts of rape and sexual assault, with alleged incidents spanning from 1983 to 2016. The 68-year-old DJ faces four rape charges, nine counts of indecent assault, and two counts of sexual assault, according to the UK Metropolitan Police.
The charges involve seven different women. Among the allegations are indecent assault on a 17-year-old in 1983, rape of a woman aged 17-18 in the mid-1990s, and rape of a woman in her 20s in 2010. Most of these incidents reportedly occurred in London.
Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy encouraged anyone affected by the case or with information to come forward, stating that the investigation remains open. Westwood has denied the allegations that emerged publicly in 2022 and is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on November 11.
Earlier this year, the BBC acknowledged its shortcomings in handling complaints about Westwood’s behaviour during his tenure from 1994 to 2013. The broadcaster admitted it “fell short and failed people” after evidence surfaced of bullying and misogynistic conduct. The BBC said there was no widespread awareness within the organisation regarding Westwood’s alleged predatory behaviour.
Westwood, widely recognized for presenting MTV UK’s Pimp My Ride between 2005 and 2007, has also been cited as an inspiration for Sacha Baron Cohen’s Ali G character. His career has been overshadowed by allegations and scandals, including those involving other BBC personalities in recent years, such as Jimmy Savile and Huw Edwards.
The case adds to ongoing scrutiny of the UK entertainment industry and its handling of sexual misconduct claims, emphasizing the need for accountability regardless of a public figure’s fame or influence.

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