Detroit Reporter Hank Winchester Cleared After Months-Long Investigation

Detroit television reporter Hank Winchester has been cleared of any wrongdoing following a lengthy investigation, after his home was searched by Oakland County investigators and he was placed on administrative leave from WDIV-TV.

Investigation and Home Search

Police executed a search warrant at the Help Me Hank reporter’s home in June after a man alleged Winchester made unwanted sexual advances during a massage.

Winchester, who is studying massage therapy, was immediately placed on leave pending the outcome. A veteran journalist, he has been with WDIV for 24 years, following earlier stints at WNEM-TV 5 in the Saginaw/Flint area as well as stations in Lansing and Marquette.

Attorney Confirms Charges Against Hank Winchester Dropped

On Friday, August 15, Winchester’s attorney Todd Flood announced that his client had been cleared of all charges, according to WJBK-TV. (See the video below.)

Winchester is best known for hosting Help Me Hank, a long-running consumer advocacy segment on WDIV-TV.

Winchester’s Statement

In a written statement, Winchester expressed relief that the investigation had concluded and thanked supporters who stood by him:

"I’m thankful this investigation is over. The allegations made against me were outrageous, unfounded and defamatory. Throughout my 24-year career in Detroit, my mission has always been to help the community I love, protect you from bad actors, and fight for justice. I will always fight for you—just as I’ve recently had to fight for myself. I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who has shown me tremendous support, especially my family and friends. The messages from so many of you greatly helped me through this incredibly difficult time."

WDIV has not yet announced when Winchester will return to the air, but his attorneys emphasized that he is eager to resume his work as a reporter and continue serving the Detroit community.