Ellie Ames 31 January 2025

Councillor jailed after ‘campaign of intimidating behaviour’

Councillor jailed after ‘campaign of intimidating behaviour’ image
Councillor Len Ford. Image: Torridge District Council

A Torridge District Council member will face prison after he was found guilty of harassment.

In December, Leonard Ford, 64, was found guilty of persistently making use of a public communication network to cause annoyance, inconvenience or anxiety, and of harassment without violence.

On Wednesday, he was sentenced at Exeter Magistrates Court to 18 weeks in jail.

The Devon council said in December that Cllr Ford had undertaken a ‘sustained campaign of intimidating and bullying behaviour’ towards staff and councillors.

The local authority said intervention through the courts was necessary after its own standards system, with only ‘limited’ sanctions, failed to change Cllr Ford’s behaviour.

Cllr Ford, who is not aligned to a political party, will continue as member for Appledore.

A council spokesperson said: ‘We are currently reviewing the legislation with regards to Mr Ford's position as a councillor.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Democratic Services, Elections & Monitoring Officer

Harborough District Council
Grade 12 £67,236 – £71,223 plus £3000pa Statutory Officer Allowance
We are looking for an accomplished and proactive leader for our vacant post of Head of Democratic Services & Elections Market Harborough, Leicestershire
Recuriter: Harborough District Council

Chief Executive

Westmorland and Furness Council
£188,227
Join us on our journey Cumbria
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Director, Local Government Reform and Devolution

Essex County Council
Up to £150,612pa
Shape the Future of Essex Chelmsford, Essex/Remots
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Senior bridge Engineer - WMF2212e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£47,181 - £48,226
You will be the key responsible engineer for this area and will also provide technical advice and guidance to our team Cumbria / Various
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Lead Approved Mental Health Professional - WMF2213e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£56,883 - £59,198
Are you a passionate, experienced Approved Mental Health Professional Cumbria / Various
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council
Linkedin Banner