West Ham owner accused of sexually exploitative and predatory behaviour

The billionaire David Sullivan has been accused of sexually exploitative and predatory behaviour by several women dating back to the 1980s. In a joint investigation with the BBC, The Times has spoken to seven women about their experiences.

In his statement on 4 June, Sullivan announced his immediate resignation as joint-chair and director of West Ham, saying the “false allegations” had been “sensationalised” and none related to his time in football. He added: “After a lifetime spent building businesses in the adult industry in which I have met thousands of women, it is sadly inevitable that a small number of improper conduct claims are being made against me. I categorically deny these claims.” Before publication, Sullivan said that he reserved his legal rights in relation to “false or defamatory allegations” and would not be commenting further at this stage.

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Guests:

• Charlotte Wace, investigations correspondent, The Times. • Shanti Das, senior investigations reporter, The Times.

Host: Manveen Rana.

Producer: Micaela Arneson.

Additional thanks to:

• James Beal, investigations editor, The Times. • Charlotte Alt, news reporter, The Times.

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Read more: David Sullivan was ‘untouchable’. Now seven women are speaking out

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