Reform UK candidate cleared of electoral fraud in Corby by-election
Police have confirmed no further action will be taken.
Northamptonshire Police say there was insufficient evidence to prove an offence after a complaint over hospitality at a campaign event.
Northamptonshire Police have confirmed no further action will be taken after investigating claims of electoral fraud linked to the Lloyds and Corby Village by-election.
The report followed a social media post suggesting Reform UK candidate Lee Duffy provided food at a residents’ meeting in mid-September. A police spokesperson said: “Following an investigation by the Force’s Economic Crime Unit, there was insufficient evidence to prove an offence of electoral fraud. No further action will be taken and those involved have been informed and advised accordingly.”
Mr Duffy, a sitting Corby Town councillor, was running in the by-election triggered by the resignation of former Reform UK councillor Robert Bloom. A Reform UK spokesman said the allegations were “a cynical political attack for cheap headlines”. The North Northants Green Party had raised concerns, saying electoral law exists “to protect us and members of the public” and that they would be neglecting their duty if they did not report the matter.
Voters went to the polls on Thursday, October 9, and Mr Duffy won the seat with 754 votes, 119 ahead of Labour’s candidate. Turnout was 22.8 per cent. Mr Duffy will now join Labour councillor Mark Pengelly in representing Lloyds and Corby Village on North Northamptonshire Council.
Reform UK’s group leader on the council, Martin Griffiths, said: “Lee has been a community champion in Corby for many years and I know he will serve the residents of Lloyds and Corby Village brilliantly.” The result does not change the council’s overall control, with Reform UK holding a majority of 40 seats.