The BBC has called in the Metropolitan Police to investigate an alleged sex scandal.
The decision comes after a high-profile presenter was suspended by the broadcaster.
The corporation has asked the police for help by delving into a series of accusations made by a teenager’s mum.
The family of the alleged victim claims the presenter paid the seventeen-year-old £35,000 for a series of explicit photographs.
The initial complaint, says the family, was made on May 19th this year.
But the presenter stayed on air for another seven weeks before the BBC suspended him.
In a statement, the BBC said the “male member of staff” was stepping down pending the outcome of a “complex and fast-moving” inquiry.
In a statement, a Met Police spokesperson said:
“The Met has received initial contact from the BBC in relation to this matter, but no formal referral or allegation has been made.
“We will require additional information before determining what further action should follow.”
The corporation is refusing to name the presenter on legal grounds of privacy.
However, his absence on screen is likely to add to the suspicion.