LABOUR COUNCILLOR RICHARD SMITH FROM PENDLE FACES PRISON OVER CHILD PORNOGRAPHY OFFENCES

In a disturbing development, Labour councillor Richard Smith, who represents the Nelson’s Clover Hill ward on Pendle Council, is now facing serious criminal charges related to child pornography. The case has garnered significant attention due to the nature of the allegations and the fact that Smith is a known public figure within the local community.

It was revealed that Smith, aged 32 and residing on Waidshouse Road, appeared before magistrates at Burnley Magistrates' Court to answer charges concerning the creation and distribution of images depicting child rape. The court proceedings confirmed that Smith admitted to making photographs involving child rape on two separate occasions—specifically on July 24 and August 20 of the previous year.

Following his appearance in court, magistrates decided to keep Smith on unconditional bail, with a scheduled date for sentencing set for September 28 at Burnley Crown Court. The case has attracted considerable media attention, partly because of Smith’s prominent role in local politics and his previous community involvement.

According to a police spokesperson, Smith was initially detained on November 12 of the previous year, after authorities uncovered evidence suggesting he had been downloading and viewing indecent images of young boys. The investigation into his activities was part of a broader effort to combat child exploitation and online abuse. Smith’s arrest marked a significant step in the ongoing investigation, which ultimately led to formal charges being filed against him on July 27.

In addition to his role as a councillor for Nelson’s Clover Hill ward, Smith also served as a member of Pendle Borough Council’s licensing committee and scrutiny management team. His political career includes a history of community service, and he previously held a position as a ‘Young Labour’ officer within the Pendle Labour Party. Smith’s background also includes work in the holiday cottages industry, and he has been a familiar face in local elections.

He first secured his seat for Labour in 2011, winning over the Liberal Democrats with more than half of the vote. In his 2010 election campaign leaflet, Smith expressed his enthusiasm for working with young people, stating, “I find working with younger people very rewarding and hope to help them develop various projects that will benefit both Clover Hill ward and Nelson.”

The legal framework under which Smith is being prosecuted allows for a maximum prison sentence of ten years upon conviction, reflecting the severity of the charges against him. The case continues to develop as the court prepares for the upcoming sentencing hearing, and the community awaits further updates on this troubling situation.