New Romney Town Council Statement - Councillor Guilty Verdict (Update)
Published: 04 July 2023
NEW ROMNEY TOWN COUNCIL STATEMENT – COUNCILLOR GUILTY VERDICT (UPDATE)
A Previous New Romney Town Council statement advised that on Thursday 29th June 2023, at Maidstone Crown Court, New Romney Town Councillor, Russell Tillson, was found guilty of historic sex offences and has been bailed pending sentencing.
It was explained that, despite the afore-mentioned guilty verdict, the Town Council has no power or authority under British Law to suspend any democratically elected Member from Office for any reason but that, should the sentencing hearing – due to take place on 1st September 2023 - result in the Councillor being required to serve a gaol term in excess of three months, this would result in automatic disqualification from Office.
That said, New Romney Town Council had scheduled an especial meeting of Full Council to take place on Wednesday 12th July 2023 to explore what other action it might lawfully take in respect of this matter.
On Monday 3rd July 2023, however, a formal letter of resignation was received from the afore-mentioned Councillor and, having been received by the Council Chairman, was effective immediate.
There now arises, therefore, a Casual Vacancy in respect of New Romney Town Council Coast Ward. The District Council Returning Officer has been duly notified and the Vacancy Notice will be published in due course.
New Romney Town Council