Police investigate David Walliams over alleged sexual offences

The Metropolitan Police has opened an investigation into comedian and children’s author David Walliams over allegations of serious sexual offences, the BBC and Associated Press report.

In a statement on Friday, the force said it had received a number of allegations concerning offences said to have taken place in the past. It did not name Walliams, describing the subject as a man now in his 50s. Specialist officers are supporting those who have come forward, it said.

Police said the allegations they are investigating are separate from those published by ITV News and The Guardian on 10 November. Detectives are also reviewing the two outlets’ reporting to establish whether it contains evidence of offences.

The joint media investigation reported allegations by several women, including claims of unwanted sexual advances and grooming when they were teenagers. The Guardian said the journalists spoke to 30 sources with first-hand accounts and reviewed material including messages and contemporaneous notes. The reports followed a failed legal attempt by Walliams to prevent publication.

Responding to the media allegations before publication, Walliams said: “I am not a sexual predator. I have not broken the law.” He denied grooming young women and said he regretted having at times behaved thoughtlessly towards people with whom he had casual sexual relationships. His lawyers also denied allegations of sexual harassment and inappropriate behaviour at work.