Axminster: Investigation launched into council's handling of sex offender former councillor

An independent investigation has been launched into how former councillor John Humphreys was able to continue to serve on East Devon District Council despite being under investigation for serious child sex offences.

John Humphreys, who was also once a mayor of Exmouth, is serving 21 years in prison after being convicted in August 2021 of sexually abusing two boys.

He served as an East Devon District Councillor from 2007 to 2019. He was also made an honorary alderman in December 2019 but has since been stripped of the title.

East Devon District Council announced this week that it has appointed Verita Consulting Ltd to carry out the investigation, which was commissioned following a decision by the council on 28 September.

The aim of the investigation is reportedly "to understand the actions of staff and councillors in the handling of matters relating to former councillor John Humphreys, and to recommend any improvements required".

A spokesperson for EDDC said: "If anyone wishes to submit evidence, written statements or to request a meeting with the investigation team in the context of the terms of the reference of this investigation, please write to Verita through their confidential email channel at [email protected].

"If the contribution is outside of the scope of the investigation agreed by councillors at EDDC, please get in contact with Devon and Cornwall Police."

The local authority anticipates that a report on the investigation will be delivered to the council in early 2023.