TV sports activities host ‘arrested on suspicion of raping baby as police make 4am raid’

A TV sports host has been arrested on suspicion of the rape of a child.

Police raided the man’s home at around 4am earlier this week, according to the Sun on Sunday. Officers are said to have searched his property in southern England and taken away computer equipment plus documents for examination.

The Sun on Sunday reports that detectives questioned the TV presenter, who was held in custody for around 18 hours, before being released on bail pending further enquiries.

The arrest is said to be over an alleged historical rape involving a child who was under the age of 10 at the time. It is alleged the child was raped on more than one occasion over a period of time.

At the time of the alleged offence, the suspect, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is said to have been working in the television industry.

The Sun on Sunday reports that the man’s bosses have been made aware of the police investigation and his arrest – but it was understood that the sports host’s TV colleagues were unaware.

The complainant is said to have made the allegation recently when it was reported to police.

They were interviewed by specialist child abuse investigation officers at a dedicated suite and an investigation was then launched.

The Sun on Sunday said the police force conducting the investigation confirmed the arrest.

It added that police officers were expected to conduct further inquiries into the man’s background as part of their investigation.

A neighbour of the man arrested told the newspaper: “The police turned up very early. They took him away and were there for a while ­carrying out a search. Everyone is shocked at his arrest.”

The Sun on Sunday said it had approached the presenter’s employers for comment.