Multiple women have made serious allegations against businessman David Sullivan, the co owner of West Ham United. The claims were reported through an investigation carried out by Panorama and The Times.
The women say the alleged behaviour took place over several decades, starting in the 1980s and continuing into the 1990s. Seven women have come forward in total.
Claims From Former Models
All of the women say they were young models at the time, mostly in their late teens or early twenties. They were trying to find work in the glamour modelling industry.
They allege that Sullivan used his position as a powerful media and business figure to pressure them. According to their accounts, he suggested career opportunities in exchange for sexual acts.
Some women claim they were pressured during meetings about work. Others say they felt they had no real choice because of his influence in the industry.
Specific Accounts
One woman, referred to as Florence to protect her identity, says she was pressured into sex even though she did not want it. She described being unable to leave the situation.
Another former model said she tried to leave a meeting after unwanted advances. She claims the door was locked and she was only allowed to leave after raising her voice.
Two women said they agreed to sexual contact because they believed refusing could damage their careers.
Response From David Sullivan
David Sullivan, now 77, strongly denies all allegations. He says the claims are false and strongly disputes the accounts given by the women.
He also described the investigation as unfair and said he will focus on clearing his name.
Sullivan stepped down from his role as joint chair of West Ham shortly after the reports became public. He said he wanted to respond to what he called decades old allegations about his private life.
Additional Historical Context
Sullivan has also acknowledged paying for sex in the 1990s with a girl he believed was 16 or 17 at the time. He said he thought it was legal then, as the law changed later in 2003.
The reports also describe his position in the 1980s and 1990s as a powerful figure in publishing and modelling industries, where he had influence over career opportunities for young women.
Evidence and Reporting
The investigation says details from the women were supported by diaries, records, and interviews with people they had previously confided in.
Many of the women chose to remain anonymous due to fear of repercussions and concern about privacy.
