LABOUR COUNCILLOR TOM NEILSON INVOLVED IN DRUGS AND CHILD PORNOGRAPHY IN MEASHAM ESCAPES JAIL

In a case that has shocked the community of Measham and the wider Leicestershire area, former Labour councillor Tom Neilson, aged 33, was found to be entangled in serious criminal activities involving drug trafficking and the possession of indecent images of children. Despite the gravity of these allegations, Neilson narrowly avoided a custodial sentence, receiving instead a community order with specific conditions.

Neilson’s criminal conduct came to light following a police raid on his residence located on High Street, Measham, in November 2015. The authorities had been investigating reports of drug-related activities and suspected illegal dealings at the property. During the raid, officers apprehended Neilson’s lodger, Brendan Evans, aged 27, who was found in possession of a substantial quantity of M-Cat, a Class B drug. The stash consisted of approximately 40.35 grams, with an estimated street value of around £1,100. Alongside the drugs, Evans was also found with paraphernalia associated with drug dealing, including dealer bags.

Further investigations led to the seizure of Neilson’s computers, which revealed disturbing evidence. Prosecutor James Bide-Thomas informed Leicester Crown Court that Neilson had accessed nearly 3,000 indecent images of children on the internet, along with extreme pornography that depicted bestiality and other illegal acts involving animals. These findings added a deeply troubling dimension to the case, highlighting Neilson’s involvement in the possession of illegal material over a span of several years, from 2008 to 2015.

Both Neilson and Evans admitted to possessing M-Cat with intent to supply. Neilson, who served as a councillor representing the North West Leicestershire District Council for the Measham South ward since 2011, resigned from his position following his arrest. During court proceedings, Neilson acknowledged his role in the drug activities, stating that he had assisted his lodger, Brendan Evans, in the supply of M-Cat. He admitted to facilitating drug parties at his home, where the substance was used, and confirmed that he himself had used M-Cat. Neilson also admitted to passing messages related to drug dealing, further implicating his involvement.

In his plea, Neilson expressed remorse and explained how his life had unraveled: “I stopped going to work and the way I was caused concern for family and friends.”

The court also heard that Neilson was responsible for possessing three counts of indecent images of children, with the material dating back to between 2008 and 2015. Additionally, he pleaded guilty to possessing eight images of extreme pornography, which included acts of bestiality, an offence that underscores the severity of his misconduct.

Judge Nicholas Dean QC delivered the sentence, emphasizing the differences between Neilson and his co-accused. While acknowledging Neilson’s previous good character, the judge pointed out that his involvement in the drug trade was secondary but still serious. Neilson was handed a three-year community order, which requires him to participate in an internet sex offender programme and complete 180 hours of unpaid work. The judge warned Neilson that if he reoffends, he would face imprisonment.

Regarding Brendan Evans, the court noted his prior convictions for drug offences and sentenced him to 20 months in prison. Judge Dean highlighted that Evans had previously served time for similar offences, which the court could not ignore, underscoring the ongoing nature of his criminal behavior.

This case has raised significant concerns about the presence of illegal activities within the community of Measham and the responsibilities of public officials. The court’s decision reflects the seriousness with which such offences are regarded, and the case continues to serve as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and integrity among those in positions of public trust.