KEITH ROGERS DROITWICH CHILD PORN OFFENDER RECEIVES HONORARY COMMUNITY MEMBERSHIP

In October 2003, a disturbing case emerged involving Keith Rogers, a former school governor and local politician from Droitwich, who was convicted of possessing nearly 2,000 indecent images of children on his personal computer. Rogers, a 66-year-old grandfather residing in Birch Coppice, was subjected to a £5,000 fine by Worcester Magistrates Court after police uncovered the illicit material on his devices.

Rogers had previously served as a governor at Westlands First School and Wychbold First School. His resignation from his position as a Labour councillor came swiftly in March, shortly after the criminal offences were brought to light. Despite his conviction, a surprising development occurred when the Westlands Community Association in Droitwich extended an offer of honorary membership to Rogers, a move that has sparked widespread outrage.

The announcement of this support was made public on Tuesday, and it has ignited strong reactions from residents, notably Mr. Earl of Meadow Court. Mr. Earl expressed his deep disgust and disbelief at the community association’s decision, especially considering that the group is currently planning to develop a children’s play area. He criticized the association for seemingly defending Rogers and portraying him as a victim rather than acknowledging his criminal actions.

"I am appalled and disgusted at the way his friends and colleagues have made him out to be a pillar of the community," Mr. Earl stated. "He has been made to look like the victim and not the perpetrator. It beggars belief that a man who was made to sign the sex offender register should be rewarded in this way. He may have been named, but he definitely has not been shamed."

Adding to the criticism, Andrew Christian-Brookes, a district councillor for Wychavon, condemned the community association’s decision. He remarked, "What I find really distasteful is that a lot of people are treating Rogers as if he had done nothing wrong. I condemn the Westlands Community Association for offering this honorary membership. I think it sends the wrong message. Basically, they are saying you can view pornographic images and be rewarded."

In response, Carol Simmonds, treasurer of the Westlands Community Association, explained that they had recently sent Rogers a letter inquiring about his interest in receiving honorary membership. She emphasized that the association was willing to support him during what she described as a "difficult time." Simmonds highlighted Rogers’ past contributions, noting, "Keith was the secretary of this community for two years until the beginning of 2003 and has dedicated a lot of time and hard work to community projects." She also expressed her personal trust in Rogers, stating, "He was not the first and certainly will not be the last to do what he did, and I would trust him with my life."

Simmonds further clarified that the honorary membership would grant Rogers the right to attend meetings but not to vote. She added that the proposal was still under consideration, pending Rogers’ response to the letter. Meanwhile, Peter Pinfield, a Labour councillor representing Droitwich and Wychavon, offered a more measured perspective. He stated, "I and colleagues have known the family for more than 30 years, and they will continue to have our support during this very difficult time. I do not condone his actions, but we all have tragic events in our lives where things go wrong."

The case of Keith Rogers has thus become a contentious issue within the community, raising questions about morality, forgiveness, and the boundaries of support for individuals with criminal pasts. The community’s response continues to be divided as the situation unfolds.