Last week, former Labour town councillor for Caerau, Andrew James, was convicted of sexually assaulting a woman.
The assault happened at a venue in Maesteg. He was subsequently charged by police.
He served as the Mayor of Maesteg Town Council during 2022-23. However, he forfeited his town council seat in June 2024 after failing to attend a meeting for 6 months.
As he entered a guilty plea, his hearing – held at Cardiff Magistrates’ Court on 25th March – went straight to sentencing. Magistrates handed down a probation and rehabilitation order, and he will also need to sign the sex offenders register for five years.
Only around 4% of recorded sex offences in England and Wales result in a charge or court summons as of March 2024.
Useful links and support for anyone who’s been affected by sexual assault or harassment: Welsh Women’s Aid; Victim Support; National Domestic Abuse Helpline.
Nobody’s perfect, but there are lines you should never cross – especially someone who once held Maesteg’s highest civic office. As he was investigated for a criminal offence whilst still a councillor, this is a matter of public interest.
If you wish to complain about the behaviour of a councillor, you can contact the Public Services Ombudsman.
