The management team behind former Love Island UK host Caroline Flack have blasted the decision to prosecute her following her death.
In December, Flack announced she was leaving Love Island after she was arrested and charged with assaulting her boyfriend. Sky News reports she had pleaded not guilty.
But two weeks from her trial, the 40-year-old was found dead in her home on Sunday (NZ time). UK media report the death is not being treated as suspicious.
Flack's management team has slammed the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) for pursuing a "show trial" which caused her "significant distress".
"We are devastated at the loss of our client and friend Caroline Flack," Francis Ridley of Money Talent Management said in a statement.
"In recent months Caroline had been under huge pressure because of an ongoing case and potential trial which has been well reported.
"The Crown Prosecution Service pursued this when they knew not only how very vulnerable Caroline was but also that the alleged victim did not support the prosecution and had disputed the CPS version of events.
"The CPS should look at themselves today and how they pursued a show trial that was not only without merit but not in the public interest. And ultimately resulted in significant distress to Caroline. Our thoughts are with Caroline's family at this time."
Tributes flood in
Tributes to the 40-year-old are already beginning to flood in on social media. UK actress Michelle Keegan said it's "absolutely devastating".
"Everyone is fighting their own battles," she wrote on Twitter. "Be kind, life's too short.
"So sorry Caroline."
Liberal Democrat MP Christine Jardine wrote on Twitter she was "horrified" by the news.
"My heart goes out to all who loved her," she said.
"I also hope all those affected by the news will reach out for support.
"Be kind to each other."
Where to find help and support:
- Shine (domestic violence) - 0508 744 633
- Women's Refuge - 0800 733 843 (0800 REFUGE)
- Need to Talk? - Call or text 1737
- What's Up - 0800 WHATS UP (0800 942 8787)
- Lifeline - 0800 543 354 or (09) 5222 999 within Auckland
- Youthline - 0800 376 633, text 234, email talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat
- Samaritans - 0800 726 666
- Depression Helpline - 0800 111 757
- Suicide Crisis Helpline - 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
- Shakti Community Council - 0800 742 584
