Stephen McCabe quits as Inverclyde Council leader after pleading not guilty to assault

NEW: Stephen McCabe is stepping down from his role as leader of Inverclyde Council as he prepares to face an assault trial.

Mr McCabe pleaded not guilty to two offences against a woman at Greenock Sheriff Court this morning.

The 60 year old denied a charge of repeatedly shouting and acting in an aggressive manner towards a woman in Kilmacolm on October this year.

The politician also pleaded not guilty to an allegation that he assaulted the same woman by repeatedly pushing her and grabbing her body on the same date.

He was released on bail, but was told not to approach or contact the woman in question.

He'll remain a councillor in the meantime.

Following McCabe’s court appearance, a spokesperson for Inverclyde Council confirmed a replacement would be appointed by elected members.

They said: “We can confirm today that Councillor McCabe has indicated that he has decided to step back from his role as Leader of Inverclyde Council.

“Deputy Leader Councillor McGuire will continue to deputise, following existing governance arrangements until a new Leader is appointed.

“Leadership of the Council is determined by the Council’s elected members.

“The next meeting of Inverclyde Council will take place on Thursday, December 5, 2024.”

The case was continued, with a trial set to begin on February 10, 2025.

An 'intermediate diet' hearing was also scheduled for January 14.

Mr McCabe, a Labour councillor, represents the Inverclyde East ward which covers Port Glasgow, Kilmacolm and Quarrier's Village.

It is understood that Mr McCabe has been administratively suspended from Labour pending the outcome of any investigation.

A Labour Party spokesperson said: "The Labour Party takes all complaints seriously.

"They are fully investigated in line with our rules and procedures, and any appropriate action is taken."

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