Caroline Flack's mum in tears as her powerful statement slamming CPS is read out at inquest
Caroline Flack's mum Christine was seen wiping away tears as her witness statement was read out in court today in which she said her daughter had been 'let down by the authorities'
Caroline Flack 's heartbroken mum was left in tears as her powerful statement slamming the CPS was read out in court today.
The telly presenter took her own life at her flat in London on February 15 - days after learning her trial over an alleged attack on boyfriend Lewis was going ahead.
An inquest into her death resumed at Poplar Coroner’s Court in London today before Senior Coroner Mary Hassell, with Caroline's mum Christine attending via video link.
Her witness statement was read out to the court and she could been wiping away tears.
In the statement, Christine slammed prosecutors for proceeding with the criminal case against her daughter, who denied assaulting Burton during a row in December 2019.
She said: "My family and I are totally devastated.
"I believe that Caroline was let down by the authorities and by the CPS in pursuing the case.
"I believe this was a show trial."
She said she had received a written apology from the chief crown prosecutor about comments he made about Caroline.
Christine said she felt the prosecutor was "unkind to Caroline and my family" and claimed she was "threatened with arrest" when she tried to speak to him.
She added: "I do want people to know what a lovely, kind and generous person she was. She never spoke badly of anyone.''
Caroline's twin sister Jody also shared her heartbreak over the telly star's death and claimed she'd previously attempted suicide the night before her court appearance in December.
If you are affected by this story there are many people who would be happy to talk to you:
Samaritans
If you need to talk and don't know where to turn to, the Samaritans operate a free helpline open 24/7 on 116 123. Alternatively you can email jo@samaritans.org or visit the website to find your local branch.
SANEline
If you or somebody you know is experiencing a mental health problem, SANEline's helpline is open between 4.30pm and 10.30pm every day on 0300 304 7000.
Mind
The mental health charity Mind has resources aimed at helping you cope with and plan for a crisis. Visit their website for details on helplines, how to access crisis services and what to do if you're unable to get help yourself.
- In an emergency, dial 999 for urgent help
In her witness statement, Jody said: "Heartbreak is something Caroline found extremely difficult...
"She attempted to take her own life the night before she appeared in court. I believe the shame... was too much to deal with."
She added: "Caroline was in a very anxious frame of mind from December 12 - the day she was charged."
Caroline was charged with assault by beating after a row at her London flat with Lewis.
She pleaded not guilty and her boyfriend always maintained her innocence, while her family slammed prosecutors for pursuing the case against the star.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the Crown Prosecution Service said in a statement: "Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of Caroline Flack.
"It is normal practice for prosecutors to hold a debriefing in complex or sensitive cases after they have ended.
"This has taken place and found that the case was handled appropriately and in line with our published legal guidance."
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