Caroline Flack’s management has slammed prosecutors for going ahead with her “show trial” despite her boyfriend saying he did not support the case.
It comes after the former Love Island host was found dead at her London home after taking her own life.
The 40-year-old’s heartbroken family confirmed the tragic news today.
The star was due to stand trial in March 2020 for allegedly assaulting her boyfriend Lewis Burton, 27, in December 2019, despite him saying he did not support the prosecution.
Francis Ridley, of Money Talent Management, issued a statement paying tribute following Caroline’s death, and also hit out at the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).
He said: “We are devastated at the loss of our client and friend Caroline Flack.
Caroline Flack’s family confirmed she has died in a statement (Image: Getty Images)
“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 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.
Francis Ridley, of Money Talent Management, hit out at the CPS in his tribute (Image: Dave Benett/Getty Images for JW Marriott Grosvenor House London)
“Our thoughts are with Caroline’s family at this time.”
Caroline was charged assault by beating following an early-morning altercation but Lewis remained loyal by her side.
The case led to her stepping down as host of Love Island and being replaced by Irish presenter Laura Whitmore for the current winter run
Despite the couple’s dedication to each other they were forced to spend Valentine’s Day apart as Caroline was banned from contacting Lewis.
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Caroline Flack dies aged 40
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Caroline Flack found dead at 40
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Caroline Flack’s tragic last post
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Tributes pour in for Caroline
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Caroline’s family release statement
Lewis Burton reportedly did not wish to ‘press charges’ against his girlfriend however the police make a charging decision in association with the CPS.
‘Pressing charges’ is a phrase that comes from the US judicial system.
A family statement read: “We can confirm that our Caroline passed away today on the 15th February.
Caroline and Lewis Burton dated for around a year (Image: TIM STEWART NEWS LIMITED)
“We would ask that the press both respect the privacy of the family at this difficult time.”
A lawyer for the Flack family confirmed that Caroline took her own life and was found in her east London flat on Saturday.
Following the death of Caroline Flack, an ITV spokeswoman said: “Everybody at Love Island and ITV is shocked and saddened by this desperately sad news.
“Caroline was a much loved member of the Love Island team and our sincere thoughts and condolences are with her family and friends.”
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
