A REDDITCH county councillor has been found not guilty of rape and sexual assault after standing trial this week.
Mike Rouse, who represents Redditch south on Worcestershire County Council was cleared on all counts today (Thursday, March 13) after being charged with the two offences back in July 2024.
The 41-year-old stood before a jury and Her Honour Judge Campbell at Coventry Crown Court over a four day trial which began on Monday (March 10).
The charges related to alleged offences which took place in Coventry between February 21 and February 23 last year.
Jurors found Rouse not guilty after deliberations this afternoon (Thursday, March 13).
Rouse was suspended from the Conservative party at his own request after being charged last year and remains on Worcestershire County Council as an independent councillor.
Today he announced he would be standing down in May when the next Worcestershire County Council elections are held. Read his full statement below.
Statement from Mike Rouse
Following today’s verdict, Mr Rouse said: “The last year has been horrendous for my family, my friends, colleagues, and me.
“I have always had great faith in the British justice system, I have always maintained my innocence and am pleased that after the jury thoroughly reviewed all the evidence, I was cleared on both charges.
“Throughout this ordeal, I want to thank my wife for standing firmly by my side. I am also deeply thankful to everyone who has stood by me during this incredibly difficult time.
“Despite everything, I have continued to serve my electors ably, and I will continue to do so until the next elections in May, when I will have to stand down. It has been a huge privilege to be a County Councillor, and the years I spent as Cabinet Member for Highways remain among my proudest.
“Right now, I need to take time with my family to recover and try to make sense of the hell this past year has been. I ask for respect for my privacy as we move forward.”
