Council head resigns following derogatory remarks towards Rotherham grooming scandal victims, labeling them as "white trash"
In a shocking turn of events, Dennis Jones, the leader of Peterborough City Council, has stepped down from his role on Thursday. The resignation was due to comments made by Jones, sent on WhatsApp, in which he referred to victims of grooming gangs in Rotherham as "white trash."
Jones' message, which was shared online, led to public outcry. In the message, he called the victims of grooming gangs "poor white trash." The Labour Party has administratively suspended Mr Jones pending an investigation.
Independent councillor Daisy Blakemore-Creedon, who has been vocal about safety concerns, received a message from Jones last month in response to her letter. Blakemore-Creedon stated that the phrase "white trash" is demeaning and dismissive of victims of grooming gangs.
However, Jones claimed that he used the inappropriate language to discredit the minimization of such crimes and to highlight the need to stand up for victims. He emphasized that vile perpetrators of sexual abuse must face the full force of the law.
Despite his suspension, Jones remains a councillor and will continue to serve as an independent. Blakemore-Creedon expressed disappointment that Jones will continue to serve, stating that she had hoped for a stronger stance against such language.
The Labour Party has not yet announced any further action against Dennis Jones beyond his administrative suspension. A Labour Party spokesperson stated that the party expects the highest standards from its members and representatives, and that swift action has been taken in response to the inappropriate language used by Jones.
Blakemore-Creedon shared a screenshot of the message on her X account, further fueling the public outcry. The person who previously served as Labour council chairman and will continue as an independent council member after being insulted as "white trash" by rape gangs in Rotherham is not identified in the provided search results.
Jones has since apologized for his remarks, reiterating the importance of fighting for victims of abhorrent crimes to get the justice they deserve. The Labour Party reaffirmed its commitment to supporting victims of grooming gangs and standing against any form of discrimination.
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