Crime & Safety
Well-Known Detroit TV Reporter Will Not Face Charges After Investigation: Lawyers
A well-known Detroit TV reporter will not face charges months after police raided his home, according to local report.
DETROIT — WDIV-TV reporter and anchor Hank Winchester will not face charges months after police raided his home, according to his lawyers.
Police did not say why Winchester's home was searched in June, but Fox 2 Detroit reported it stemmed from an incident in which he made sexual advances toward a man during a massage.
"On the facts of this case, it was concluded there was no cause to file any charges against Mr. Winchester," Chief Prosecutor David Williams told the Detroit News.
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Defense lawyers Neil Rockind and Todd Flood held a news conference Friday describing Winchester as "the victim of baseless and unfounded allegations."
"His home was invaded the same way that the police would pursue major criminals," Rockind said. "His door was kicked in. Since then, Hank has suffered, his loved ones have suffered, his family and inner circle have suffered, and his friends have suffered. Hank's reputation took a beating. He became the subject of online gossip and comments, and his integrity was questioned."
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WDIV posted a statement from Winchester that read:
"I’m thankful this investigation is over. The allegations made against me were outrageous, unfounded and defamatory. Throughout my 24-year career in Detroit, my mission has always been to help the community I love, protect you from bad actors, and fight for justice. I will always fight for you—just as I’ve recently had to fight for myself. I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who has shown me tremendous support, especially my family and friends. The messages from so many of you greatly helped me through this incredibly difficult time.
The TV station placed Winchester on administrative leave after station officials learned of the investigation.
Winchester is best known for his "Help Me Hank" segments on WDIV, where he has been since 2001, according to his biography on the station's website.
Winchester also co-hosts “The Morning After” podcast with Kelly Stafford, who is married to LA Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford.
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