BBC host Huw Edwards accused of distributing obscene images

Huw Edwards, until recently one of the most well-known TV presenters on the BBC, is facing serious allegations: He is accused of producing obscene images of children in three cases, as the Metropolitan Police in London stated on Monday. The 62-year-old Edwards hosted the prestigious 10 PM news broadcast for the BBC and covered significant national events, including the death and funeral of Queen Elizabeth II and the coronation of King Charles III last year. Edwards left the BBC in April 2024. According to a statement from the Metropolitan Police, Edwards will appear before the Westminster Magistrates' Court on Wednesday. He is alleged to have shared illegal images via WhatsApp. The incidents are said to have occurred between December 2020 and April 2022. Edwards was arrested on November 8, 2023, and the charges were filed on Wednesday, June 26, after approval by the public prosecutor. Once a criminal case becomes active, UK media are restricted by law to prevent any material outside of the court proceedings from influencing the jury. On Monday, the police issued a stern warning regarding such restrictions. "The media and the public are strongly reminded that this is an active case. Nothing should be published, including on social media, that could affect future court proceedings," said the statement. Huw Edwards, born in 1961 in Bridgend, Wales, worked for the BBC for four decades, ending his career as one of the highest-paid employees with a salary of up to £479,999 per year, equivalent to more than $600,000, according to the broadcaster's latest annual report.