Headlines

Ex-BBC Radio DJ Westwood pleads not guilty to rape and sexual assault charges

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on December 8, 2025

1 min read

· Last updated: January 20, 2026

Add as preferred source on Google
Spirax manufacturing facility showcasing growth in UK sales - Global Banking & Finance Review
Image of Spirax's manufacturing operations emphasizes the company's optimistic sales growth forecast for the second half of the year, reflecting strong performance in the finance sector.
Global Banking & Finance Awards 2026 — Call for Entries

LONDON, Dec 8 (Reuters) - Former BBC Radio DJ Tim Westwood on Monday pleaded not guilty to 15 sexual offences, including four counts of rape, allegedly committed over a period of more than 30 years.

Ex-BBC DJ Tim Westwood Denies Sexual Offences Charges

LONDON, Dec 8 (Reuters) - Former BBC Radio DJ Tim Westwood on Monday pleaded not guilty to 15 sexual offences, including four counts of rape, allegedly committed over a period of more than 30 years.

Westwood, a prominent figure in British hip-hop, is accused of sexual offences against seven women between 1983 and 2016.

The 68-year-old is charged with nine counts of indecent assault, two counts of sexual assault and four counts of rape.

Three counts of indecent assault relate to one complainant Westwood allegedly assaulted at BBC Studios, according to the indictment.

Westwood appeared at London's Southwark Crown Court and spoke only to confirm his name and enter his not guilty pleas.

He was granted bail until his trial, which is due to begin in January 2027.

(Reporting by Sam Tobin; editing by Sarah Young)

Key Takeaways

  • Tim Westwood pleads not guilty to 15 sexual offences.
  • Charges include four counts of rape over 30 years.
  • Seven women accuse Westwood of offences from 1983 to 2016.
  • Trial scheduled for January 2027 in London.
  • Westwood granted bail after court appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is rape?
Rape is a criminal offense involving non-consensual sexual intercourse or penetration. It is a serious violation of an individual's autonomy and can have severe psychological and physical effects on the victim.
What is sexual assault?
Sexual assault refers to any non-consensual sexual act or behavior, including unwanted touching or coercion. It encompasses a range of offenses and is considered a serious crime.
What is bail?
Bail is a legal mechanism that allows a person accused of a crime to be released from custody, usually after paying a specified amount of money, while awaiting trial.
What is an indictment?
An indictment is a formal charge or accusation of a serious crime, typically issued by a grand jury. It signifies that there is enough evidence to proceed with a trial.
What is a trial?
A trial is a legal proceeding in which evidence is presented to determine the guilt or innocence of a defendant. It involves a judge, and often a jury, who evaluate the case based on the law.

Tags

Related Articles

More from Headlines

Explore more articles in the Headlines category