By Karim Hammam
Reform UK councillor George Madgwick has been charged with 35 offences, including 12 counts of rape, two counts of sexual assault, and two counts of assault by penetration, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) announced. He also faces charges of making and distributing indecent images of a child, causing or inciting child sexual exploitation, controlling and coercive behaviour, stalking, threats to kill, false imprisonment, criminal damage, and theft.
Charges follow police investigation
The charges stem from a Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary investigation into allegations involving four victims who were aged 16 to 17 at the time. The alleged incidents occurred between 2008 and 2021 in Portsmouth and Wales. Police launched the investigation in July 2025 and arrested Madgwick at an address in Wandsworth, London, in January 2026.
Suspended by Reform UK
Madgwick, who led the Reform UK group on Hampshire County Council and served as councillor for North East Havant, has been suspended by the party with immediate effect. A Reform UK spokesman confirmed the suspension following the CPS announcement.
Court appearance scheduled
Madgwick has been bailed to appear at Portsmouth Magistrates Court on 25 November. The CPS stated that prosecutors determined there is sufficient evidence and that prosecution is in the public interest, while reminding the public of the defendant's right to a fair trial.
