LABOUR COUNCILLOR JAMES SHAW FROM STOURPORT SENTENCED FOR INDECENT PHOTOS IN WYRE FOREST

In a case that has shocked the local community of Stourport and the wider Wyre Forest district, James Shaw, a long-standing Labour councillor and former leader of Wyre Forest District Council, has admitted to creating indecent photographs of a child. The incident took place in the town of Stourport, where Shaw has been a prominent figure in local politics and community service for several decades.

James Shaw, who resides at Heightington Place in Stourport, appeared before Worcester Crown Court on September 11 of this year to face charges related to the creation of indecent images. During the court proceedings, Shaw pleaded guilty to the offence, which was committed over a period spanning from January to July 2018. The court heard that the crimes occurred within the boundaries of Stourport, a town where Shaw has been actively involved in public service since the 1980s.

At the time of the offence, Shaw was serving as a Labour ward member representing Areley Kings and Riverside on Wyre Forest District Council. His political career has been marked by significant longevity and influence, including an eight-year tenure as the leader of the council during the 1990s. Shaw’s contributions to the local community extend beyond politics; he has also served as a school governor and worked within the education department of Worcestershire County Council.

Now aged 68, Shaw’s career in public service has been extensive. He was the second-longest serving councillor for Wyre Forest District Council, holding office for 32 years until his resignation in November of the previous year. Shaw cited health issues as the reason for stepping down from his position, bringing an end to a notable chapter in local governance.

Following his guilty plea, Shaw was sentenced to six months in prison, but the sentence was suspended for 18 months, meaning he will not serve time unless he commits another offence within that period. The case has raised concerns and discussions within the community about safeguarding and the responsibilities of public officials, especially those who have held positions of trust for many years.