MP's aide charged with indecent images offences

A former aide to a Labour MP has been charged with possession of indecent images of children.

Conor McGrath, 29, worked for Stevenage MP Kevin Bonavia and served as a borough councillor in the town between 2023 and 2025.

McGrath, of Biggleswade in Bedfordshire, was charged with three offences on Monday following a 10-month investigation, reports the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Hertfordshire Police said he had been released on bail ahead of an appearance at Stevenage Magistrates' Court on 25 March.

The charges are:

• one count of taking or making indecent category A images of a child
• one count of taking or making indecent category B images of a child
• one count of taking or making indecent category C images of a child

McGrath was elected for Labour in Stevenage Borough Council's Bedwell ward from January 2023 until 28 April 2025, when he began sitting as an independent.

He resigned his seat four days later, on 2 May.

It is understood Bonavia took action to ensure police were informed as soon as he became aware of the allegations against the aide.

Disciplinary procedures were triggered and McGrath, of Biggleswade, resigned from Bonavia's office at about the same time as his resignation from the council.

Bonavia and McGrath have not had any contact since, it is also understood.

A Labour Party spokesperson said: "The Labour Party took swift action to suspend Conor McGrath as soon as these allegations came to our attention.

"We cannot comment further while legal proceedings are ongoing."

Det Con Tom Campbell of Hertfordshire Police said it had been "a protracted and complex investigation" requiring "significant specialist resources".

"This case must now proceed through the justice system unimpeded by misplaced public comment and speculation, to allow a fair trial," he said.

"I would urge people not to share information or speculate on online platforms."

The force urged anyone with further concerns to contact them.

A spokesperson for Stevenage Borough Council said: "We have been made aware by Hertfordshire Constabulary that a former councillor has been charged with an offence following an investigation."

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