UPDATE: A Leicestershire parish councillor has been found guilty of bullying a colleague amid an escalating feud over a Facebook post. Councillor Paul Taylor breached the Sapcote Parish Council’s code of conduct, according to a report by Blaby District Council (BDC), after a heated exchange with fellow councillor Laura Badland that left her feeling unsafe.
The dispute erupted in November 2024 when Cllr Taylor posted on the ‘Sapcote News’ Facebook page, mentioning a suspicious white van and describing its passengers as “foreign.” Cllr Badland filed a complaint over the post, which ignited a series of confrontations between the two at council meetings and in a parking lot.
Cllr Badland alleged that Cllr Taylor’s behavior was “aggressive” and “intimidating,” claiming she feared for her safety. During a December meeting, she reported that he confronted her outside, charging towards her and pointing aggressively. “I was scared to walk my kids to school,” Badland said, highlighting the emotional impact of the incident. She has since installed CCTV around her home for protection.
In a statement to the council, Cllr Taylor dismissed the allegations, asserting that his warning about the van was for community safety. He stated: “This is an absolute joke… I’m being made out to be the baddy here yet again.” Despite his claims, the investigation concluded that he had breached the council’s code of conduct on three counts, including bullying behavior.
As a result of the incidents, Cllr Badland resigned, expressing her heartbreak over leaving the council. “I never wanted to leave… but I felt I had no other option,” she stated, emphasizing the distress caused by the situation.
In response to the findings, BDC has made several recommendations to the Sapcote Parish Council, which will be discussed at their next meeting. The council reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and fairness, pledging to consider the suggested sanctions seriously.
This incident raises significant concerns about the conduct of elected officials and their responsibilities to their communities. With reports of bullying and intimidation in local government, it highlights the need for a thorough examination of council behavior and accountability.
As the situation develops, residents and officials alike are urged to reflect on the importance of respect and professionalism in public service. The next steps from the Sapcote Parish Council will be closely monitored as they address the recommendations from BDC.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story unfolds.
