Child abuse victim 'went into meltdown' after BBC news report broadcast her name, court told

Arif Ansari (43), head of news at BBC Asian Network, is on trial at Sheffield Magistrates' Court today (Thursday) accused of publishing the name of a sex crime victim under the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act 1992.

The reporter who had written and delivered the live news bulletin was Rickin Majithia, prosecutor Mr Neil Usher told the court.

It was the first time Mr Majithia had filed a report from a crown court.

Victims of sexual offences have lifelong anonymity under the act.

The victim, who cannot be named for legal reasons, said in a statement read to the court this morning (Thursday): "I heard the presenter use my full name.

"I went into full meltdown, panicking and worrying, and I didn't hear anything else that was said.

"It instantly made me feel sick and worried about what would happen in the future."

The bulletin was broadcast on the BBC Asian Network last February

Ansari, of BBC Portland Place, London, denies the offence.

The trial continues.