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Former council leader denies sexual offences

Gavin KermackWest Midlands
News imageBBC A man with short grey hair and a grey beard, wearing blue-rimmed spectacles, a blue-and-white-striped shirt and a dark blue jacket, stands in front of some out-of-focus houses.BBC
Joe Baker denied all the charges against him at Worcester Crown Court on Tuesday

A former leader of Redditch Borough Council has appeared in court to deny multiple sexual offences.

During a hearing at Worcester Crown Court on Tuesday, Joe Baker, 53, pleaded not guilty to sexual assault, causing a person to engage in sexual activity, and attempting to cause a person to engage in sexual activity.

Baker stood down as council leader shortly after being suspended by Labour last April, and now represents Batchley and Brockhill ward as an independent.

A four-day trial is due to begin on 10 January 2028.

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