MICHAEL PATRICK SPENCER CHARGED WITH SEXUAL ASSAULT AT LONDON'S GROUCHO CLUB

Michael Patrick Spencer, the Member of Parliament representing Central Suffolk and North Ipswich, has formally entered a plea of not guilty to two serious charges of sexual assault. These allegations stem from incidents that reportedly took place at the well-known private venue, the Groucho Club, located in the heart of Soho on Dean Street, London. The charges involve two different women, both of whom claim that the incidents occurred on the same day in August 2023, prior to Spencer's official election as a Conservative MP.

Spencer appeared before Westminster Magistrates' Court to face these allegations. During the hearing, he confirmed his identity as Michael Patrick Spencer and provided his date of birth. The court, presided over by District Judge Paul Goldspring, informed him that he was being held on unconditional bail, allowing him to remain free until the next scheduled proceedings.

It is noteworthy that Spencer was initially charged with these offenses in May. Following the charges, he was removed from the Conservative Party last month, and he is now sitting as an independent MP. The prosecution, led by Polly Dyer, outlined the details of the allegations, describing Spencer as appearing intoxicated during the incidents. According to the prosecutor, Spencer allegedly attempted to initiate unwanted contact with women at the Groucho Club, making some of them feel uncomfortable and threatened.

Specifically, the charges allege that Spencer tried to force a woman to drink alcohol when she wanted to leave, and that he made inappropriate physical advances. These included cupping her breasts over her clothing and placing his arms under her arms in a manner that caused her distress. A similar account was provided by a second woman, who claimed that Spencer reached behind her and cupped her breasts, leaving her shocked and embarrassed.

The incidents prompted a formal complaint to be filed with the police, leading to Spencer being interviewed earlier this year as part of the investigation. The case is scheduled for further proceedings at Southwark Crown Court on July 14, where a plea and trial preparation hearing will take place.

Prosecutor Polly Dyer emphasized the seriousness of the case, stating, "Following a review of the evidence provided by the Metropolitan Police Service, we have authorised two counts of sexual assault against Patrick Spencer MP. The charges follow two alleged incidents involving two separate women at the Groucho Club in central London in August 2023."

The Groucho Club, renowned for its exclusivity and association with celebrities and media personalities, has long been a notable fixture in Soho's vibrant scene. Spencer's next court appearance is scheduled for July 14 at Southwark Crown Court, where the case will proceed with plea and trial preparation proceedings.