Statement from Leader of Redbridge Council
Published: 10 March 2025
Update 14 March 2025
Redbridge Council agrees for urgent change in law following resignation of local councillor
The Leader of Redbridge Council has given his backing for plans to change in the law to empower the removal of politicians who commit serious crimes that erode the public trust.
This follows the resignation of Sam Gould on 12th March who pleaded guilty to two counts of indecent exposure at Court earlier this week. Mr Gould was previously a ward councillor for Hainault.
The Leader of Redbridge Council, Cllr Kam Rai, said: “Upon learning of Mr Gould's offences, I called for his immediate resignation as a council member, and the council took prompt action to block his council devices and access cards. I'm relieved he has now resigned from the council.
"The past week's revelations have been distressing, and my heart goes out to the victims for what they endured. Unfortunately, we as a council do not have the power to remove a council member, even when they've committed such a serious offence. Our hands are effectively tied. With that in mind, I’m pleased to see the commitment from Government for a change in the law that would allow the removal of politicians who commit serious crimes.”
In due course, further information regarding a by-election to replace Mr Gould will be provided. Mr Gould will be sentenced in April for his offences.
10 March 2025
The Leader of Redbridge Council, Cllr Kam Rai, has issued the following statement concerning the recent arrest of a council member.
He said:
"I am shocked and appalled by the actions that have come to light over the weekend of Councillor Gould.
"As soon as Mr Gould’s arrest was communicated over the weekend, he was rightly suspended by the Party. Unfortunately there is no process for his suspension from the Council. My heart goes out to the victims who have had to endure his despicable behaviour.
"Redbridge Council will continue to work closely with the Police to support their investigation, and I would like to personally thank them for their immediate and timely action.
"Following the inexcusable betrayal of his residents, the Council, and our wider community, it is only right that Mr Gould immediately resign as a councillor and face justice."
Redbridge Council has issued the following statement:
"Today, the Metropolitan Police Service has confirmed that a serving elected member of Redbridge Council has pleaded guilty to two counts of indecent exposure under the Sexual Offences Act.
"The Council member concerned is Mr Sam Gould. He is a ward councillor in Hainault. Mr Gould appeared today (Monday 10 March 2025) at Barkingside Magistrates' Court.
"As a council, we are deeply disturbed by this matter. Following Police involvement, we’ve taken immediate steps to ensure that the council member concerned no longer has access to council systems.
"This matter is now subject to future criminal proceedings, so it is inappropriate for the Council to provide any further comment."
