Savile's BBC driver found dead prior to sex crimes trial

67-year-old David Smith, who had 22 previous convictions for sexual abuse against young boys, was found dead on the eve of his court appearance.

15:28 29 October 2013

David Smith, 67, who used to be the driver of Jimmy Savile and who had 22 previous convictions of sexual abuse against young boys, was found dead on the eve of his court appearance.

Police found the former BBC driver’s body at his home following an apparent suicide in Lewisham, southeast London.

A spokesman said: “Police attended a private address in Effingham Road, Lewisham on Monday 28 October as a man had failed to appear at Southwark Crown Court today.

“At approximately 2.20pm officers entered the address and found the body of a man. A forensic medical examiner attended and pronounced the man dead at the scene. Next of kin are being informed.

“Whilst officers believe they know the identity of the deceased, they await confirmation of formal identification.”

The cause of death is not yet known and the results of a post-mortem are expected to be released soon.

Meanwhile, the case against Smith was closed by the judge.