The legendary music icon lashed out at what he called “completely false” allegations after police raided his luxury penthouse in Berkshire, England. It’s claimed he assaulted a boy aged under 16 years during a Christian concert at a soccer ground.
Cliff (73), who is staying at his plush vineyard in the Algarve, Portugal, said he would “cooperate fully” with the police probe. He said he had been aware of “rumors of historic impropriety” circulating about him online for months but decided not to “dignify” them with a response.
The alleged assault is reported to have taken place at Sheffield United’s Bramall Lane stadium during an appearance by US preacher Billy Graham (95) in 1985. Cliff said in his statement: “For many months I have been aware of allegations against me of historic impropriety which have been circulating online.
“The allegations are completely false. He said. “Up until now I have chosen not to dignify the false allegations with a response, as it would just give them more oxygen.” He futher added that “it goes without saying that I will cooperate fully” and that he would not comment further until the investigation concluded.
Police said yesterday that the investigation is not connected to Scotland Yard’s high-profile sex crime probe Operation Yewtree, which was launched in the wake of the Jimmy Savile abuse scandal. The gates to Cliff’s luxury estate which houses his penthouse remained closed all day yesterday, with little sign of police activity.
“A search warrant has been granted after police received an allegation of a sexual nature dating back to the 1980s. “This involved a young boy under the age of 16 years.
“But no-one has been arrested at this stage.”
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