Rape allegation untrue, says Leslie
Tue 24 Jun 7:04 PM. By Press Association
Former Blue Peter presenter John Leslie has insisted that a new rape allegation against him is "totally untrue".
He condemned "lies about my private life" and said: "I certainly did not attack this person as I have never attacked anyone."
In a statement, he said: "On Monday I attended Teddington police station by appointment. I was arrested on suspicion of a crime that was allegedly committed in 1995.
"I was interviewed for 30 minutes and released on bail. Five years ago I helped the police complete a thorough investigation into malicious claims against me."
Leslie said: "As I was found innocent of all charges, I had hoped that the police would be able to conduct their investigation in confidence, and that I would not be pre-judged.
"Regrettably, as has happened in the past, the details of a private police inquiry have been leaked to the press and once again I face trial by media.
"It is thus with a mixture of anger and distress that I am forced to talk yet again about lies about my private life, lies that destroyed my public career."
Leslie said the accusation was "totally untrue" and "if I sound bitter, it is because I am". The former This Morning daytime TV host said the lies "that destroyed my public career in 2003 ... now threaten the private life which I have been happy to lead since then".
The latest allegations against Leslie are claimed to have taken place at a party at his home in Sheen, west London. It is reported his accuser was in her early 20s when she claims she was attacked.
Scotland Yard previously confirmed a man in his 40s was questioned by detectives over an allegation of rape and sexual assault in November 1995.
