A model has accused the American musician and fashion designer Kanye West of choking her during a professional assignment, an allegation that has prompted legal interest from British authorities. The accuser, who has not been named, detailed the incident in a BBC exclusive broadcast on Tuesday evening.
The woman, a model who worked with West on a music video shoot in London last year, described a confrontation in which West allegedly placed his hands around her neck and applied pressure. She stated that the episode lasted approximately 20 seconds and left her struggling to breathe. The model said she did not report the incident to police at the time due to fear of reprisals but decided to speak out following the recent civil case in which a jury found West liable for battery.
The BBC report has drawn the attention of the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), which confirmed it is reviewing the allegations. A spokesperson for the CPS said: "We are aware of the claims made in the BBC programme and are assessing whether they meet the threshold for prosecution under British law." The Metropolitan Police also issued a statement saying they are "liaising with the BBC and will consider any evidence presented."
The alleged incident took place in a rented studio in east London. According to the model, West became agitated during the shoot and confronted her after she questioned his creative direction. The model said two other members of the production crew witnessed the altercation but did not intervene. She provided the BBC with contemporaneous text messages to a friend which read: "Kanye just choked me. I'm shaking. I need to leave."
Legal experts note that under UK law, an act of choking or strangulation can constitute actual bodily harm, which carries a maximum sentence of five years' imprisonment. The charge of common assault, which does not require proof of injury, also applies. The limitation period for such offences in England and Wales is six months for summary offences, but indictable offences have no time limit.
West, who was in London at the time of the reported incident for a series of business meetings, has yet to respond publicly. His representatives did not comment when contacted by the BBC. The musician has a history of legal disputes, including a recent civil trial in Los Angeles where a jury found him liable for battery and awarded $250,000 in damages.
This is not the first allegation of physical misconduct against West. In 2022, a former employee filed a lawsuit alleging a similar incident. The case was settled out of court. The model's decision to speak to the BBC is part of a broader trend of individuals coming forward with accusations against high-profile figures in the wake of the #MeToo movement.
British lawmakers have expressed concern over the handling of such cases. Harriet Harman, a senior Labour MP and chair of the Joint Committee on Human Rights, said: "This is a serious allegation. The police must investigate thoroughly and ensure that justice is done regardless of the accused's wealth or fame." The Home Office has previously announced plans to tighten laws around non-fatal strangulation, making it a specific offence.
The BBC said it stands by its reporting and has offered the model support. The corporation is expected to hand over its material to the authorities as part of any investigation.
As the story develops, it underscores the complex intersection of celebrity, power, and legal accountability on both sides of the Atlantic.
