In January 2024, it was alleged that the Member, in his official capacity, attended at the Complainant’s place of work and caused significant distress to the Complainant and their employers.
The Ombudsman started an investigation to consider paragraphs 6(1)(a) (disrepute) and 7(a) (using your position improperly) of the Code of Conduct (“the Code”). Information was obtained from the Council, the Complainant and Dyfed Powys Police (“the Police”). The Complainant subsequently advised that they wished to withdraw the complaint before the evidence gathering stage of the investigation had concluded and no draft findings of potential breaches of the Code had been made.
Taking into account the Complainant’s wishes and the information obtained during the investigation, including the decision taken by the Police that they were unable to progress enquiries, under Section 70 of the Local Government Act 2000, the Ombudsman decided that it was not in the public interest to continue the investigation. Therefore, the investigation was discontinued.