THE FORMER Labour leader of Redditch Borough Council has appeared in court accused of sexual offences.
Coun Joe Baker, a serving independent councillor for Batchley and Brockhill Ward, was in Worcester Magistrates Court on Tuesday.
He faced charges of cause a male 13 or over to engage in a non penetrative sexual activity, attempt to cause a male aged 13 or over to engage in sexual activity – no penetration, and sexual assault on a male.
The prosecution brought another charge of attempt to cause a male aged 13 or over to engage in sexual activity – no penetration, which was withdrawn.
The case has now progressed to Worcester Crown Court for a plea and trial preparation hearing on January 13.
Coun Baker denies all the charges
Baker resigned as leader of the council in April of this year.
