Huw Edwards, one of the most recognisable faces on British television, arrived at court Monday to be sentenced for having indecent photographs of children, capping a stunning fall from stardom.
Edwards was seen pulling a suitcase and wearing a cardigan as he arrived at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in central London flanked by his legal team.
The ex-BBC presenter has guided Britons through some of their country’s most seismic events over the past two decades, including the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
His calm delivery — mixed with the public broadcaster’s reputation for journalistic impartiality — made him a trusted and reassuring presence for millions.
But the 63-year-old’s reputation and career now lie in tatters after he pleaded guilty in July to three charges of making indecent images of children between December 2020 and August 2021.
Edwards faces a maximum prison sentence of 10 years and a minimum of 12 months.
It is possible the sentence could be suspended meaning he would not serve any time in custody.
The former anchor admitted receiving 41 indecent images of children over WhatsApp, including seven of the most serious type.
Most children were aged 13 to 15 and one was between seven and nine.
Edwards was first arrested in November and charged in June, but the case was only revealed publicly in late July a couple of days before he appeared in court to admit the counts.
The Welsh presenter resigned from the BBC in April on “medical advice” after 40 years with the broadcaster.
The BBC, whose brand is built on public trust, has admitted being made aware by police of the arrest and has been criticised for continuing to pay Edwards a salary for six months afterwards.
The broadcaster is funded by a licence fee paid by UK households.
AFP
