Man charged over indecent images of children following 10-month Hertfordshire police investigation
A man has been charge with possessing indecent images of children – including one in the most serious category.
Conor McGrath, aged 29, and of Biggleswade, was charged today (Monday 23 February), after a 10-month investigation by specialist officers on Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Child Online Safeguarding Team (COST).
The former Hertfordshire councillor, who also worked for Stevenage’s MP, has been charged with:
One count of taking/making indecent CAT A images of a child
One count of taking/making indecent CAT B images of a child
One count of taking/making indecent CAT C images of a child
The charges follow a complex investigation by the team.
Detective Constable Tom Campbell said: “This has been a protracted and complex investigation which has required significant specialist resources.
“This case must now proceed through the justice system unimpeded by misplaced public comment and speculation, to allow a fair trial, so I would urge people not share information or speculate on online platforms.”
Mr McGrath was arrested on April 23, 2025, but could not be named until today for legal reasons.
He has been released on bail ahead of appearing at Stevenage Magistrates Court on Wednesday, March 25.
Mr McGrath served as a Labour borough councillor for Bedwell ward from January 2023 until April 28, 2025, when he began sitting as an independent. He resigned his seat four days later, on May 2.
It is understood that Stevenage’s MP, Kevin Bonavia, followed advice from the parliamentary authorities after he became aware of the allegations against Mr McGrath, who resigned from his role as an aide.
A Labour party spokesperson said: “These are incredibly serious charges – anybody found guilty of committing such heinous offences must face the full force of the law.
“The Labour Party took swift action to suspend Conor McGrath as soon as these allegations came to our attention. We cannot comment further while legal proceedings are ongoing.”
A spokesperson for Stevenage Borough Council said: “We have been made aware by Hertfordshire police that a former councillor has been charged with an offence following an investigation.
“We will not be commenting on this matter as it proceeds through the criminal justice system.
“If you have any further concerns, please contact Hertfordshire Police by calling 101.”