Gloucestershire councillor charged with rape
A Forest of Dean District councillor appeared in court today
Last updated 23rd Dec 2021
A Gloucestershire councillor has been charged with rape and engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour.
Forest of Dean District councillor Ian Whitburn, 59, of Newland Street, Coleford, appeared before Cheltenham Magistrates’ Court on December 21.
He has been charged with eight counts of rape and one count of engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour.
Whitburn has been released on unconditional bail and is due to appear before Crown Court on January 20, 2022.
Mr. Whitburn remains a serving councillor at Forest of Dean District Council.
A spokesperson for the council said they "will not be commenting on any ongoing legal proceedings."