Former council leader charged with sexual offences

A former leader of Redditch Borough Council has appeared in court accused of sexual offences.

Joe Baker, who sits as an independent councillor since being suspended by Labour in April, appeared at Worcester Magistrates' Court on Tuesday.

He is accused of causing a male aged 13 or over to engage in a non-penetrative sexual activity, attempting to cause a male aged 13 or over to engage in a non-penetrative sexual activity, and sexual assault on a male.

The case has been sent to Worcester Crown Court for a plea and trial preparation hearing on 13 January.

Mr Baker led the council for 11 months until April, when he stepped down as leader, citing personal reasons.

First elected in 2012, he is currently serving his fourth term as a borough councillor, in the Batchley and Brockhill ward.

A spokesperson for Redditch Borough Council said it would not be appropriate for the authority to comment.

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