Police have confirmed that the teenage boy at the centre of a sexual offences investigation involving BBC Radio 2 presenter Scott Mills was under the age of 16 at the time of the alleged incidents.
The revelation adds significant weight to the seriousness of the case, which was first investigated by police but ultimately did not result in any criminal charges being brought against the broadcaster.
The case was dropped in 2019 after the Crown Prosecution Service determined there was insufficient evidence to pursue charges against Mills. The CPS applies a two-stage test when considering prosecutions, requiring both sufficient evidence and that a prosecution is in the public interest.
Scott Mills is a well-known figure in British broadcasting, having worked for BBC Radio 1 for many years before moving to BBC Radio 2. He is also recognised internationally for his work as a commentator at the Eurovision Song Contest.
The BBC has faced growing scrutiny in recent years over how it handles allegations of misconduct involving on-air talent, following a number of high-profile cases that have raised questions about safeguarding and internal oversight within the organisation.
The confirmation from police that the alleged victim was under 16 has reignited public discussion around the case, despite its legal conclusion several years ago. The disclosure of the victim's age provides new context that was not widely known at the time the investigation was closed.
Mills has not been charged with any offence, and the CPS decision in 2019 means no finding of guilt has ever been made against him in relation to the investigation. The presumption of innocence remains a cornerstone of the British legal system, and individuals are considered innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
Authorities have not indicated any plans to reopen the investigation at this time. The case continues to draw media attention as further details emerge about the circumstances surrounding the original inquiry.
