Celebrity publicist Max Clifford arrested over Savile inquiry

Max Clifford, perhaps one of the most well known publicists in the UK, has been arrested and charged with 11 counts of indecent assault.

The publicist was arrested as part of the extensive Operation Yewtree, a police investigation initiated after Jimmy Savile’s sexual offences were revealed. However, Clifford’s arrest is thought to have no direct link to Savile.

The charges comprise of multiple sexual offences against seven women, a total of 11 counts. The historic charges relate to offences allegedly committed between 1966 and 1985.

Clifford, aged 70 and from Kingston upon Thames, was originally arrested back in December 2012 on suspicion of these offences and on Friday the Crown Prosecution Service authorised police to charge him.

Since 2012, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) have carefully collected and reviewed evidence that have reportedly contributed to the decision to arrest Clifford again earlier this week. Three allegations reviewed back in 2012, however, were found to lack significant evidence and charges have therefore not been authorised for these specific claims.

Altogether, the celebrity publicist faces a possible 10 years in prison if found guilty.

Despite having a high profile, Clifford is a controversial figure in the British public having frequently represented controversial clients. He established his own company in his twenties and has since represented a wide range of celebrities including Frank Sinatra, Simon Cowell and Kerry Katona.

He has declared the allegations to be “nonsense” and has vowed to clear his name. In regards to the decision to charge him, Clifford said that he was “disappointed” and was worried about the distress the case is having on his wife, Jo, and daughter, Louise.

The trial is due to take place on 28 May 2013.

Zoe Field