A Former Channel 4 Fitness Star Has Been Arrested On Suspicion Of An Attempted Murder Involving A Chocolate Bar

Former 'The Big Breakfast' segment host, Jody Bunting, who made regular appearances on Channel 4's morning show between 2001 and 2002, vehemently denies accusations of attempted murder in connection with a colleague's severe cocoa allergy.

 

The 45-year-old, arrested on November 2, describes the situation as "crazy." Bunting claims the incident stemmed from bringing a fruit and nut chocolate bar to Mickleover Court Hotel Leisure Club, where he worked, on October 21.

 

According to Bunting, he left the chocolate in the reception area, captured on CCTV, with the alleged victim absent from work that day. The woman, known to have an intense cocoa allergy, only needs to be in the same room to experience a reaction. Five days later, upon Bunting's return from holiday, the colleague reportedly suffered a severe reaction, landing her in the intensive care unit of the Royal Derby Hospital.

 

Bunting insists that he brought the chocolate on a day when he knew the alleged victim wouldn't be present. However, he was shocked to learn of the police investigation upon his return. Despite describing the chocolate as a simple fruit and nut Dairy Milk, the situation escalated quickly.

 

The fitness instructor shared his disbelief at being arrested, emphasizing his amicable relationship with the alleged victim, stating, "We are friends. It's not as if I had something against her." Since the investigation began, Bunting claims he has had to cease working at the health club and halt other fitness classes he conducted.

 

Released on bail with conditions, including restrictions on contacting specific staff members at Mickleover Court and visiting the club, Bunting's life has been significantly disrupted. The fitness guru, known for his weight loss journey and fitness classes, expressed the difficulty of casually revealing, "I've been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder."

 

As of now, Bunting has not received updates from Derbyshire Constabulary about key developments since his arrest. The police spokesman stated, "A 45-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and wounding with intent on Nov 2. He has been bailed as investigations continue. The arrest relates to an incident at the Mickleover Court Hotel in Derby between 22 and 29 Oct 2023." The woman allegedly attacked by Bunting has not yet commented on the situation.

 

The Johnson Partnership

Derby Crime Solicitors 

 

01332 370 473