Two town/community councillors are under investigation for separate instances of sexual assault and harassment.
To both prevent speculation, and protect the identities of those involved, the full details won’t be published here pending the outcome of investigations – though they’ve been confirmed by several trustworthy sources and have been known about in local political circles for a while.
One councillor is said to have used false pretences to make an unwanted advance. A complaint has been made to the Public Services Ombudsman.
A second councillor is said to have sexually assaulted someone in public and has been subject to a police investigation. (Update 31/03/25: Following his conviction, this can be revealed as former Labour Maesteg town councillor, Andrew James).
While being accused of something isn’t a sign of guilt in itself, neither have been politically suspended and both have remained active community councillors.
These two incidents of reported misogynistic violence by community councillors are not the first this term. A former Bridgend town councillor is awaiting a retrial, scheduled for October 2024, for attempting to murder his wife – though he has pleaded guilty to wounding with intent.
Useful links and support for anyone who’s been affected by sexual assault or harassment: Welsh Women’s Aid; Victim Support; Male Survivors Partnership; National Domestic Abuse Helpline.
Or to complain about the behaviour of a councillor: Public Services Ombudsman.
