A man has reportedly been arrested on suspicion of blackmail, harassment, and malicious communications after allegedly targeting one of Britain’s most popular comedians
A man has reportedly been arrested in connection with an alleged blackmail attempt against one of Britain’s most beloved comedians, in a disturbing case that has left the star “shocked” and deeply distressed, it has been reported.
The 35-year-old suspect is believed to work in the arts and accused of trying to extort money from the entertainer by threatening to go public with vile, defamatory, and entirely false accusations.
Over a period of several months, the comedian, who is reportedly a middle-aged man well known across the UK, is claimed to have received a barrage of menacing phone calls and threatening text messages, all designed to coerce him into paying the blackmailer to keep the damaging claims hidden.
According to a source close to the investigation, the false claims were “disgusting in nature and totally false” and caused the victim significant emotional strain.
They told The Sun: “He is said to have received messages and calls from a blackmailer who was threatening to publicly smear him with false accusations. These accusations were disgusting in nature and totally false and they have caused the victim considerable distress.”
Despite reportedly being known to the suspect from a meeting several years ago, the comedian reportedly had no close relationship or ongoing contact with him. The sudden and sustained nature of the blackmail attempt has been described by insiders as “a bolt from the blue,” and the famous entertainer is said to have been left reeling by the whole ordeal.
Concerned for his safety and reputation, the comedian reportedly contacted police, who launched an investigation and moved swiftly to act. Officers from the Metropolitan Police reportedly arrested the suspect in East London on Friday, June 27.
During the arrest, a number of electronic devices were said to have been seized from the property. These are now being forensically examined for evidence relating to the alleged blackmail and malicious communications, according to The Sun.
The suspect was taken into custody and later released on police bail, pending further inquiries. He is expected to return for questioning in mid-September. The case remains active, and investigators continue to review evidence and interview relevant parties.
A spokesperson for Scotland Yard confirmed the arrest and ongoing nature of the investigation. In a statement, the Metropolitan Police said: “On Friday, June 27, a 35-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of harassment, blackmail and malicious communications.
“He was taken into custody and later bailed to return pending further inquiries. He is next due back on a date in mid-September. The arrest follows allegations reported to police on June 26. The investigation is ongoing.”
Meanwhile, the comedian, who has not been publicly identified due to legal restrictions, is receiving police support and has provided a full statement to aid the investigation.
Source: Mirror
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