Police receive report of sex offence claims after allegations against Noel Clarke

Police have confirmed that they have received a third party report relating to claims of sexual offences committed by a male, after allegations were made against the actor Noel Clarke.

On Thursday, the Guardian published an investigation with 20 women accusing actor Clarke of harassment, sexual misconduct and bullying.

Clarke has denied the allegations, saying: ‘I vehemently deny any sexual misconduct or criminal wrongdoing.’

A spokesperson from the Metropolitan Police said: ‘On Wednesday 21 April police received a third party report relating to allegations of sexual offences committed by a male over a period of time. Officers are currently assessing the information.

‘We would urge anyone who believes they have been subjected to a sexual offence to report this to police so the information can be assessed and investigated accordingly. There are specially trained officers ready to provide advice and support.’

They added that there is no investigation underway at the moment.

The report was received a week before The Guardian article was published.

After the allegations were first published, Bulletproof star Clarke said: ‘In a 20-year career, I have put inclusivity and diversity at the forefront of my work and never had a complaint made against me. If anyone who has worked with me has ever felt uncomfortable or disrespected, I sincerely apologise. I vehemently deny any sexual misconduct or wrongdoing and intend to defend myself against these false allegations.’

He shared a further statement on Friday, saying: ‘‘I vehemently deny any sexual misconduct or criminal wrongdoing.

‘Recent reports however have made it clear to me that some of my actions have affected people in ways I did not intend or realise.

‘To those individuals, I am deeply sorry. I will be seeking professional help to educate myself and change for the better.’

The allegations came two weeks after Clarke was awarded the outstanding contribution to British cinema honour at the Baftas.

Bafta has suspended his membership and the award.

Sky has suspended all projects Clarke was involved in, and ITV chose not to broadcast the finale of Viewpoint, in which the actor stars, instead making it available on the ITV Hub for two days.

A number of Clarke’s colleagues have also spoken out on the allegations, including Ashley Walters and Alexandra Roach.

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