Caroline Flack was ‘looking forward” to proving her innocence’ ahead of her trial after being accused of assaulting boyfriend Lewis Burton, 27, in December.
Yesterday Caroline’s family released a statement to confirm the former Love Island presenter had been found dead in her London home and had tragically killed herself.
CPS pressed ahead with the case despite Mr Burton not wanting to press charges.
A source close to Caroline, 40, has claimed that she determined to prove her innocence when the case eventually went to crown court, scheduled for March 4.
But Caroline was subjected to strict bail conditions which prevented her from contacting Lewis until after the trial.
Caroline Flack was reportedly ‘looking forward’ to ‘proving her innocence’ in court on March 4 (Image: Mike Marsland/WireImage)
A source told The Sun: “This is the most dreadful and shocking news – and has come as a bolt from the blue for everyone.
“Caroline has been very low but absolutely no one saw this coming or had any inkling she felt this way.
“Otherwise she would never have been left alone.”
The source claimed that the timing suggests that Caroline being apart from Lewis on Valentines Day may have been the “final straw”.
The source continued: “The timing of this is just dreadful and suggests that being apart from Lewis on Valentine’s Day may have proved the final straw for Caroline.
“Caroline was determined to prove her innocence and seemed to be looking forward to being able to do that in court.
Lewis Burton released a tribute to say he is ‘heartbroken’ following his girlfriend’s death (Image: Instagram)
“She insisted she was innocent, she was determined to prove she was innocent – and Lewis never supported her prosecution.”
Following her death, broadcast and talent agent Louisa McDonald has slammed CPS for pressing ahead due to her “vulnerable” state.
In a statement, she said: “We are devastated at the loss of our client and friend Caroline Flack.
“An immensely talented young woman who was at the top of her game professionally and loved by television viewers across the country.
“In recent months Caroline had been under huge pressure because of an ongoing case and potential trial which has been well reported.
The Love Island host presented the show for five seasons (Image: Contour)
“The Crown Prosecution Service pursued this when they knew not only how very vulnerable Caroline was but also that the alleged victim did not support the prosecution and had disputed the CPS version of events.
“The CPS should look at themselves today and how they pursued a show trial that was not only without merit but not in the public interest.
“And ultimately resulted in significant distress to Caroline.
“Our thoughts are with Caroline’s family at this time. Francis Ridley, Money Talent Management.”
In response to criticism, a CPS spokesperson said: “Our deepest sympathies go to the family and friends of Caroline Flack.
“Given the tragic circumstances, we will not comment on the specifics of this case at this stage.”
For emotional support you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
