Note: The following article contains discussion of sexual misconduct.
EastEnders spoilers follow for Monday's episode (August 5).
EastEnders has confirmed the specifics of Linda Carter’s deal ahead of Dean Wicks’ murder trial.
Linda has been struggling in recent months following the murder of Keanu Taylor at Christmas, with her guilt leading to her depending on alcohol.
Her false statement led to Dean being charged with the crime, though his plea of not guilty has meant that Linda has been behaving nervously ahead of the trial, which takes place next month.
Related: EastEnders' Shona McGarty says former co-star influenced new role
What to Read Next
In Monday’s (August 5) episode, Linda got a surprise as she headed upstairs at The Vic to drown her sorrows, with an associate of Dean making his presence known.
Fraser, a confident Scottish fellow, informed Linda that Dean is willing to offer her a deal – should she retract her witness statement, he would confess to having raped her.
After Fraser ridiculed Linda’s drinking problem and questioned whether she’d be in a fit state to testify, Elaine arrived to break up the confrontation as she ordered that Fraser leave the premises.
He still left his contact details for good measure before recalling the witness oath as he departed, with Linda left silent following the surprising meeting. Elaine, however, was left furious, saying the meeting constituted witness intimidation
Related: EastEnders to revisit Anna and Freddie romance in upcoming scenes
As Johnny remarked that they should remain calm before the trial, Linda was nervous about the prospect of testifying, casting doubt on how she would stand up in the face of scrutiny.
Johnny implored her to remain strong, noting that they couldn't trust Dean to keep up his end of the bargain even if Linda agreed to retract her confession. She agreed with him initially, but quickly turned to drink as she mulled over the development.
Will Linda stick to her guns, or will Dean and Fraser manage to convince her to withdraw her statement?...
EastEnders airs on Mondays - Thursdays at 7.30pm on BBC One. The show also streams on BBC iPlayer, where most episodes drop early at 6am ahead of their TV broadcast.
Read more EastEnders spoilers on our dedicated homepage
If you've been affected by the issues raised in this story, you can access more information from Rape Crisis England and Wales, which works towards the elimination of all forms of sexual violence and sexual misconduct, on its website or by calling the National Rape Crisis Helpline on 0808 802 9999. Rape Crisis Scotland’s helpline number is 08088 01 03 02.
Readers in the US are encouraged to contact RAINN, or the National Sexual Assault Hotline on 800-656-4673.
