Former BBC News Presenter Charged With Child Abuse Images

Huw Edwards, a former BBC News presenter, has been charged with three counts of making indecent images of children, London’s Metropolitan Police announced on Monday. The charges relate to images allegedly shared on WhatsApp.

Edwards, a well-known figure in British broadcasting, was arrested in November 2023 and subsequently charged last month. The alleged offences, which are said to have taken place between December 2020 and April 2022, relate to images shared on a WhatsApp chat.

The police statement revealed that Edwards is accused of possessing six category A images – the most serious classification under English law – 12 category B pictures and 19 category C photographs. If found guilty, he could face a prison sentence of up to 10 years.

Edwards, who is 62 years old, is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London on Wednesday. The police have reminded the media and the public not to publish information on social media or elsewhere that could potentially prejudice future court proceedings.

Edwards, who had a 40-year career at the BBC, stepped down from his role as presenter of the BBC’s News at Ten in late April. He was one of the most recognisable faces in British television news.

The BBC's annual report, published last week, revealed that Edwards was paid between £475,000 and £479,999 in the financial year 2023-2024, making him the corporation's third highest-paid employee.

This news follows a period of intense scrutiny for the BBC, which has faced criticism for its handling of high-profile figures and its internal culture. The charges against Edwards further add to the challenges facing the broadcaster as it strives to maintain public trust.