Caroline Flack’s team have slammed the Crown Prosecution Service for pressing ahead with prosecuting the late star following an incident last December.
The showbiz world was rocked on Saturday after it emerged Caroline had taken her own life at the age of 40.
She was found dead at her London flat today, prompting an outpouring of tributes from devastated celebrities and friends.
The tragic news came amid a troubled backdrop for the star - who was being taken to court for assault following an alleged early-morning altercation with Caroline’s boyfriend Lewis Burton, 27, in December.
The CPS had decided to pursue the case despite Lewis refusing to press charges and urging authorities to drop the case - insisting Caroline was innocent.
Broadcast and talent agent Louisa McDonald released a statement on behalf of Caroline's management firm following her tragic death in which they criticised the CPS' decision to pursue the high-profile case.
"We are devastated at the loss of our client and friend Caroline Flack," she said.
"An immensely talented young woman who was at the top of her game professionally and loved by television viewers across the country.
"In recent months Caroline had been under huge pressure because of an ongoing case and potential trial which has been well reported.
"The Crown Prosecution Service pursued this when they knew not only how very vulnerable Caroline was but also that the alleged victim did not support the prosecution and had disputed the CPS version of events.
"The CPS should look at themselves today and how they pursued a show trial that was not only without merit but not in the public interest.
"And ultimately resulted in significant distress to Caroline. Our thoughts are with Caroline’s family at this time. Francis Ridley, Money Talent Management."
Asked about the criticism of the decision to prosecute Caroline, a CPS spokesman said: "Our deepest sympathies go to the family and friends of Caroline Flack.
"Given the tragic circumstances, we will not comment on the specifics of this case at this stage."
On Saturday, a lawyer for the Flack family confirmed that Caroline took her own life, while a spokesperson said: "We can confirm that our Caroline passed away today on the 15th February.”
They added: “We would ask that the press respect the privacy of the family at this difficult time."
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