RANDOLPH CONTEH, EX-STOKE-ON-TRENT COUNCILLOR, GUILTY OF RAPE IN STOKE-ON-TRENT

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the Stoke-on-Trent community, former city councillor Randolph Conteh has been convicted of the heinous crime of raping a young girl. The incident, which took place between 1995 and 1997, was brought to light after the victim reported the matter to police in 2020, leading to a lengthy legal process that culminated in his conviction.

Randolph Conteh, who resided in Weston Coyney within Stoke-on-Trent, vehemently denied the allegations throughout his trial. He maintained his innocence, asserting that he did not commit the crime of raping a girl under the age of 16 during the specified period. Despite his denials, the court found sufficient evidence to convict him of the serious offence.

The trial was held at Derby Crown Court, where Judge Shant presided over the proceedings. During sentencing, the judge made it clear to Conteh that his conviction for such a grave offence would likely result in a lengthy custodial sentence. The judge emphasized the severity of the crime, stating, “You have been convicted of the very serious offence of rape, for which you can expect a lengthy custodial sentence.”

Randolph Conteh, aged 63, had served as a councillor in Stoke-on-Trent for nearly two decades before resigning in May 2021. His resignation came after 19 years of service on the local authority, during which he held the position of a cabinet member, a role that involved significant responsibilities and public trust.

During the trial, prosecutor Jonathan Dickinson addressed the jury, highlighting that the case hinged on the credibility of two main witnesses. He pointed out that both witnesses could not be telling the truth simultaneously, implying that one was deceiving the court. The prosecutor reminded the jury that on the day the victim claimed she was raped, she recalled Conteh having told her, “I want to be with you tonight,” a statement that was central to her account.

Furthermore, the victim confided in a family member shortly after the alleged incident, revealing her ordeal. Mr. Dickinson argued that this early disclosure demonstrated that her allegations were not fabricated or a “wild allegation dreamt up in 2019,” the year she initially contacted Conteh in distress. The court heard that her concern was heightened when she discovered Conteh’s position as a councillor, which brought him into contact with children and raised questions about his conduct and the potential impact of his role.

Randolph Conteh is scheduled to be sentenced on July 15, with the court likely to impose a significant custodial sentence given the gravity of the offence and the evidence presented during the trial. The case has left a lasting impact on the community, raising concerns about trust and safeguarding within local government and public service roles in Stoke-on-Trent.