UK Edition
Operation Midland: Alleged fantasist 'Nick' could face charges over abuse claims
An alleged fantasist, known only as Nick, who claimed he had been raped and abused by a powerful VIP paedophile ring, could face charges after police referred the case to prosecutors.
Detectives from Northumbria Police have spent ten months investigating the man on suspicion of perverting the course of justice, after his claims led to a huge Scotland Yard investigation known as Operation Midland.
They have also been investigating Nick, who cannot be properly identified for legal reasons, on suspicion of making a fraudulent claim to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority.
But it is understood police have now concluded their inquiries and have sent a file on the case to prosecutors, who will now decide whether to press charges.
A spokesman for Northumbria Police said: "Last year Northumbria Police launched an investigation at the request of the Metropolitan Police Service.
"We can confirm that on 4th September a file was passed to the Crown Prosecution Service for them to make a decision on whether or not there will be any charges in relation to the investigation. To date nobody has been arrested in connection with the investigation."
A Crown Prosecution Service spokesman said: “On 4 September we received a file of evidence from Northumbria Police into allegations against one person of perverting the course of justice and fraud.
“Our prosecutors will consider the evidence with a view to making a charging decision in line with the Code for Crown Prosecutors.”
The maximum sentence for perverting the course of justice is life imprisonment.
Operation Midland, which cost £2.5 million, saw a number leading politicians and other high profile figures falsely accused of appalling child abuse and even murder.
Among those to have their reputation traduced during the inquiry was the late former Prime Minister Sir Edward Heath, former Home Secretary Lord Brittan and the former head of the army Lord Bramall.
Former Tory MP Harvey Proctor, who spent more than a year under investigation, lost his home and his job and his now seeking substantial damages from the Metropolitan Police.
Last week, Scotland Yard confirmed that it had paid £100,000 compensation to Lord Bramall and Lord's Brittan's widow after raiding their homes during the probe.