Cliff Richard cleared of sex abuse claims
British singer Sir Cliff Richard has had his name cleared after it was found there was “insufficient evidence to prosecute” him over allegations of historical sex abuse.
Having always maintained his innocence, the Wired for Sound singer released a statement slamming authorities over the handling of the case.
CPS ends Sir Cliff Richard sex abuse inquiry, with no further action to be taken
— Cliff Richard (@SirCliffNews) June 16, 2016
“I have always maintained my innocence, co-operated fully with the investigation, and cannot understand why it has taken so long to get to this point,” Sir Cliff said in the statement.
“Other than in exceptional cases, people who are facing allegations should never be named publicly until charged,” he added.
Sir Cliff Richard’s full statement: Singer calls for suspects to be given anonymity as he… https://t.co/cfVzvIJQdn pic.twitter.com/nUdncFYdMF
— Telegraph News (@TelegraphNews) June 16, 2016
“I was named before I was even interviewed and for me that was like being hung out like ‘live bait’.”
Four men claimed the offences took place between 1958 and 1983 with reports at least one may appeal the decision.
