Strictly star arrested in East London on suspicion of assault and image abuse

A Strictly Come Dancing star has been arrested on suspicion of assault and nonconsensual intimate image abuse, as police confirm a developing investigation that is not connected to the upcoming series. The arrest took place in East London on Friday, 22 August, and investigators say the inquiry is a joint effort between the Metropolitan Police and Hertfordshire Constabulary. Officers are pursuing a third-party allegation of sexual and drug-related offences, and the alleged assault victim is being supported by specialist officers while inquiries continue. BBC representatives said it would be inappropriate to comment on an ongoing police investigation, while stressing that the matter remains outside the forthcoming season’s schedule.

In a statement, investigators indicated the case is in the early stages and urged anyone with information to come forward. The arrest is described as a significant development for a show that has faced a string of controversies in recent years. Police emphasised that the alleged victim is receiving appropriate support as investigators review the details of the allegations, including the reported nonconsensual intimate image abuse.