A
Art Mann
Guest
Coronation Street star Michael Le Vell
faces string of sex charges
including child rape and indecent assault
National Post Wire Services | Feb 15, 2013
Police have charged a longtime star of the soap opera Coronation Street with child sex offenses including rape and indecent assault.
Michael Le Vell, who has played mechanic Kevin Webster on the show for 30 years, faces 19 charges. Police say the charges relate to offenses against a child between 2001 and 2010.
The actor released a statement Friday saying he would vigorously contest the charges.
“I would like to make it quite clear that following the serious allegations that have been brought against me on Thursday 14th February 2013, I am innocent of these charges and intend to fight them vigorously.
“I will now put all my efforts into clearing my name and proving my innocence.
“I thank my friends, family and fans for their continued support. I would ask now for time to concentrate on preparing my defence with my legal team,” he said.
He was originally arrested and questioned in 2011, but released without charge. Prosecutors said Friday they had overturned that decision.
The 48-year-old actor, whose real name is Michael Turner, is due in court Feb. 27. he split from his wife Janette Beverley in 2012.
The soap, set in a fictional working-class district in northwestern England, is one of the most popular programs on British and Canadian television.
