DYMCHURCH PARISH COUNCIL STATEMENT – COUNCILLOR GUILTY VERDICT

Dymchurch Parish Council are aware that on Thursday 29th June 2023, at Maidstone Crown Court, Dymchurch Parish Councillor, Russell Tillson, was found guilty of historic sex offences and has been bailed to the 1st of September for sentencing.

1) In British Law, the accused is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt (in a Court of Law)

2) TheParish Council has no power or authority under British Law to suspend any democratically elected Member from Office for any reason

Therfore the above mentioned Councillor currently may remain a serving Councillor, under UK law, until at least such time as sentencing takes place and the outcome of sentencing is known.

In light of the afore-mentioned guilty verdict, if the sentence handed down in due course involves serving a gaol term in excess of three months duration (whether suspended or not) , this will result in disqualification from serving as a Councillor at Dymchurch Parish Council. At this point a vacancy will be declared and District Council Returning Officer will be duly notified and Vacancy Notices will then be published. However, should a lesser sentence be received, this would not result in disqualification from office.