Jimmy Savile Sex Abuse Inquiry Becomes Formal Criminal Investigation, Scotland Yard Confirms

'We Are Dealing With Alleged Abuse On An Unprecedented Scale'
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The inquiry into alleged child sex abuse by Sir Jimmy Savile is now a formal criminal investigation, Scotland Yard has said.

In a statement released on Friday police said 400 lines of enquiry had been assessed and over 200 potential victims had been identified.

Commander Peter Spindler said the force was "dealing with alleged abuse on an unprecedented scale".

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Police have identified more than 200 potential victims

"The profile of this operation has empowered a staggering number of victims to come forward to report the sexual exploitation which occurred during their childhood.

"I am pleased that victims feel confident enough to speak out about the abuse they suffered and would like to reassure the public that we take all these cases very seriously and they will be investigated with the utmost sensitivity."

Anyone with information or concerns is urged to call the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000.