‘Not a violent person’ Melanie Sykes breaks silence over arrest for assault on ex-husband

TV presenter Melanie Sykes has spoken out for the first time on her 2013 arrest for assault against her ex-husband. The star, 51, was arrested six months after marrying roofer Jack Cockings, then 27, in November 2013, following a dispute at her home. The media personality has now stepped forward to speak about the night of her arrest before calling for reform on how officers handle abuse allegations.

Melanie was cautioned for common assault after admitting the offence to Metropolitan Police officers and later launched legal action to have the caution expunged from official records.

She went on to divorce Cockings in 2014.

But the star has now spoken about the night of her arrest after hearing about similar experiences with police officers from friends.

Melanie claims that police officers failed to check both hers and Cockings’ accounts of the events when she was arrested.

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Melanie admitted that she was “clueless” when police turned up at her front door and had to leave her sons Valentino, then 11, and Roman, nine, with Cockings following her arrest.

When being taken back to her home by officers, Melanie claims that they had been “laughing and joking” about her life as a celebrity.

She said they asked what it was like working with Des O’Connor, who she presented a chat show with for two seasons.

Speaking about the journey home, Mel said: “I was in the back of the car, having the most traumatic night of my life, trying to manage two police officers who want to have a casual, fun chat with me.”

“We are reviewing our existing advanced safeguarding course to ensure that it reflects national guidance. Officers will be able to gain and maintain accreditation in this area, developing vital skills and understanding which will benefit the public.

“We have also started to deliver new specialist training on domestic abuse to over 8,000 frontline constables and sergeants so we can improve the initial response to domestic abuse and assist officers with recognising and responding to coercive and controlling behaviour.

“We are constantly working with our partners in a meaningful and understanding way, listening to views to help us help survivors of violence and to prevent violence occurring in the first place,” they added.

The statement continued: “It is right that all Londoners can trust our officers, staff and volunteers whenever they encounter them. We depend on the trust of the public.

” All officers know this and understand that they need to work harder to re-gain the confidence of Londoners.

“Anyone who wishes to make a complaint is encouraged to do so. We want to hear about people’s experiences and have the opportunity to examine what has happened, identify any poor performance and improve the service we provide our communities.,” they told Mail Online.