British Star Ricky Whittle Arrested On Suspicion Of Assault

November 27, 2009 1:36 p.m. EST

Liverpool, England (CNS) - British actor Ricky Whittle has been arrested for alleged assault in the early hours of Friday. The "Strictly Come Dancing" contestant is being held at a police station in Liverpool.

Whittle was seen leaving a bar at the Parr Street Studios in Liverpool before the alleged incident.

It is believed that his Dodge Ram pick-up truck struck a photographer as he attempted to drive home. The photographer, 34-year-old Steve Farrel, declined treatment when paramedics were called to the scene, but he later went to the hospital for minor injuries.

A police rep confirmed that a 29-year-old man from the Billinge area of Greater Manchester was arrested on suspicion of assault.

The actor will remain in police custody where he will be questioned.

Because of the incident, his appearance on the dance competition show this weekend is in jeopardy. He is partnered with professional dancer Natalie Lowe.