Jian Ghomeshi surrenders to police, charged with sexual assault

Former CBC radio host Jian Ghomeshi is facing five charges of sexual assault after surrendering himself to Toronto Police on Wednesday.

According to a police press release, Ghomeshi has been charged with four counts of sexual assault and one count of overcoming resistance – choking. The 47-year-old Toronto resident will make an appearance in court later today.

Ghomeshi was fired by the CBC on October 26 after allegations of his violent sexual behaviour emerged into the public. This was compounded by allegations that his activities also occurred within his work environment at the CBC.

On October 31, the Toronto Police Service Sex Crimes launched an investigation into several allegations of sexual assault. At least nine women have since come forward against him with allegations.

The former host of Radio One show Q later maintained in a social media post that while he was engaged in “rough sex” with his partners, it was always consensual.

Today’s charges against Ghomeshi comes only a day after he dropped his $55-million lawsuit against the CBC for terminating his employment and “breach of confidence” – using personal information against him. As part of the settlement, Ghomeshi has agreed to pay $18,000 to the CBC for legal costs incurred.

Feature Image: CBC