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A scandal has rocked the Redbridge Council as a former senior aide of Health Secretary Wes Streeting resigned from his position as a councillor after being found guilty of indecent exposure. Sam Gould, 33, admitted to two counts of indecent exposure at Barkingside Magistrates’ Court in Ilford earlier this week. In response, Labour leader Kam Rai expressed relief at Gould’s resignation and supported efforts to grant local authorities the power to remove councillors involved in serious crimes.
Rai acknowledged the lack of existing processes to expel Gould from the council despite his suspension from the Labour Party. However, he welcomed government plans outlined in the Criminal Justice Bill that would enable the removal of politicians convicted of serious offenses. Gould, who previously represented Hainault as a ward councillor, was accused of exposing himself to a mother and her daughter, sparking widespread outrage and condemnation from streeting.
In light of Gould’s actions, Streeting made the decision to dismiss him and urged for his immediate resignation from the council. Expressing disgust at the appalling behavior, Streeting emphasized the need for accountability and justice for the victims. Rai highlighted the council’s swift response in restricting Gould’s access to council resources and devices following the revelations. Plans for a by-election to fill the vacant seat left by Gould are underway, as the community processes the disturbing events that have unfolded.
As the scandal continues to unfold, Gould of Hornchurch, east London, awaits sentencing on 7 April after being released on bail. The community remains shaken by the distressing revelations, with support and thoughts extended to the victims who endured the traumatic ordeal. The incident has prompted discussions around the importance of holding public officials accountable for their actions and ensuring transparency and integrity within local authorities
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