Ex-JLS star Oritse Williams arrested in Wolverhampton fan rape probe
Former JLS singer Oritse Williams has denied an allegation of rape made following a gig in Wolverhampton, it has been reported.
The former boyband star had appeared at Gorgeous nightclub in School Street and was arrested afterwards at a hotel in the city in the early hours of December 2.
The arrest followed allegations of rape and sexual assault made by a 20-year-old woman who was said to be a fan of Williams and had joined him at the hotel, according to reports
West Midlands Police confirmed two men had been arrested, one on suspicion of rape and the other on suspicion of sexual assault, and later released on bail.
After the allegations against 30-year-old Williams emerged today, his management issued a statement in which he denied any wrongdoing.
In the statement, 10 Worlds Music UK, said: "All we wish to say at this time is that Oritse denies the allegations against him. The matter is in the hands of the police and it would be totally wrong for us to comment any further."
Police spokeswoman Gina Lycett confirmed a 30-year-old man had been arrested on suspicion of rape. In a statement, the force said: "West Midlands Police were called to a Wolverhampton hotel at 7.45am on December 2 after an allegation of rape and sexual assault was made by a 20-year-old woman.
"A 30-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of rape and a 29-year-old man arrested on suspicion of sexual assault. Both men have been bailed until February, pending further inquiries."
On December 1, Williams wrote on Twitter:
Two days later he posted a video clip of his appearance, which showed him meeting fans. Williams has 'liked' several posts on Twitter claiming he was innocent but did not post himself.
He shot to fame with JLS who were runners-up on The X Factor in 2008. The group sold more than 10 million albums and chalked up five No 1 singles. They split in 2013 citing personal differences. Since JLS was disbanded the singer has pursued a solo career. Also in JLS were Aston Merrygold, Marvin Humes, and Jonathan 'JB' Gill.
Merrygold had been due to star as Peter Pan at Wolverhampton's Grand Theatre but after making it to theX Factor final he decided to pull out. But he and the rest of the band did surprise theatre goers when they turned up at the Grand to watch the show before appearing at the former Oceana nightclub.
