Local News · Swindon
Ex-Reform UK councillor for Rodbourne Cheney appears in court over six charges
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Lawrence Davies, the borough councillor for Rodbourne Cheney, has appeared at Swindon Magistrates Court to face a series of charges including dangerous driving and assault.
Lawrence Davies, a borough councillor for Rodbourne Cheney, has appeared at Swindon Magistrates Court to face six separate criminal charges. The 54-year-old, of Moredon, appeared in the dock on Thursday afternoon.
Mr Davies faces charges of dangerous driving, failing to stop after a road collision, failing to report that collision, and driving without insurance. These charges stem from an alleged incident on 13 April 2026, which reportedly involved damage to a blue Mercedes Benz on Kingsdown Road.
In addition to the road traffic offences, court documents confirm that Mr Davies has been charged with assault by beating and perverting the course of justice. The latter charge relates to allegations that he used false registration plates on his vehicle between 12 April and 22 April 2026.
During the hearing on 24 September, it was determined that the case must be adjourned. Because charges of perverting the course of justice must be heard at a Crown Court, and the remaining charges are linked to that matter, the case will be transferred to a higher jurisdiction.
Mr Davies was released on unconditional bail. He is expected to enter pleas to the six charges during a pre-trial preparation hearing, which has been scheduled for the morning of Friday, 23 October, at Swindon Crown Court.
A spokesperson for Reform UK stated that Mr Davies was suspended from the party on 26 August. Mr Davies has claimed he informed party leaders of his intention to resign on 28 July and was not aware of his suspension until after his resignation.
Source: Swindon Advertiser · View original