BBC sacked Scott Mills when ‘compelling new information’ emerged from underage accuser a decade after police investigation
BBC sacked Scott Mills when ‘compelling new information’ emerged from underage accuser a decade after police investigation
Scott Mills, the veteran Radio 2 presenter, was dismissed by the BBC following the surfacing of new, persuasive evidence from an underage accuser, according to recent claims. The revelation came a decade after a police inquiry had previously examined the allegations.
Corporation leaders reportedly felt compelled to take action after fresh details about Mills’ alleged behavior were brought to light. This has prompted questions about the timing of his termination, as his close associates were said to be unaware of the developments until Monday.
Investigation timeline and prior clearance
Mills, 53, lost his position after 27 years with the organization. The BBC has stated that his dismissal was linked to personal conduct, though specifics remain undisclosed. Hampshire Police noted that the sexual offenses case was initially reported in 2016 and transferred to the Metropolitan Police for review. Mills was questioned that year, but the Crown Prosecution Service closed the investigation in 2019 due to insufficient proof.
Friends’ reactions and media scrutiny
Friends described Mills as having ‘gone to ground’ after his sacking, struggling to reach him as he avoided communication. One source told the Mirror that the decision left his circle ‘totally blindsided,’ with many learning of the dismissal and past police probe only days earlier.
“I don’t understand. He was investigated by police 10 years ago over alleged offences 25+ years ago, but no action was taken and case was closed.”
“The BBC needs to explain why, surely?”
Media analyst Mark Borkowski emphasized the need for clarity, stating: “The BBC must come clean about what they know about the alleged investigation into Mills, otherwise listeners will question why he was axed for something that occurred a decade ago.”
Connection to Huw Edwards’ scandal
The dismissal appears tied to a recent Channel 5 documentary on Huw Edwards, which detailed the downfall of the former BBC newsreader. Mills was reportedly fired six days after his last Radio 2 breakfast show. A source suggested the timing was ‘not a coincidence,’ linking it to the public’s renewed focus on past misconduct allegations.
Edwards, who received a suspended six-month sentence for three charges of child sexual abuse, was portrayed by Martin Clunes in the docudrama. Despite criticizing the program in a recent statement, Edwards has shown support for Mills by liking a LinkedIn post about the stress of his situation.
Neuroblastoma UK, a children’s cancer charity, has also terminated its relationship with Mills, who had served as a patron since 2021. The decision highlights the broader implications of the allegations as the BBC faces scrutiny over its handling of past investigations.
