Conor McGrath, 29, who also worked for Stevenage’s MP, was charged today (Monday, February 23) after a 10-month investigation by specialist officers within Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Child Online Safeguarding Team.
Mr McGrath has been charged with:
One count of taking or making indecent category A images of a child
One count of taking or making indecent category B images of a child
One count of taking or making indecent category C images of a child
Conor McGrath was a councillor for Bedwell ward on Stevenage Borough Council. Credit: Stevenage Borough Council. Permission for use for LDRS partners.
Detective Constable Tom Campbell said it had been “a protracted and complex investigation” requiring “significant specialist resources”.
He added: “This case must now proceed through the justice system unimpeded by misplaced public comment and speculation, to allow a fair trial.
“I would urge people not to share information or speculate on online platforms.”
Mr McGrath, who now lives in Biggleswade, was arrested on April 23, 2025, but could not be named until today for legal reasons.
He has been released on bail and will appear at Stevenage Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 25 March.
Mr McGrath served as a Labour borough councillor for Bedwell ward from January 2023 until April 28, 2025, when he began sitting as an independent. He resigned his seat four days later, on May 2.
Mr McGrath stopped working as an aide to Kevin Bonavia, Stevenage’s Labour MP, at around the same time as his council resignation.
A Stevenage Borough Council spokesperson said: “We have been made aware by Hertfordshire Police that a former councillor has been charged with an offence following an investigation.
“We will not be commenting on this matter as it proceeds through the criminal justice system. If you have any further concerns, please contact Hertfordshire Police by calling 101.”
A Labour Party spokesperson said: “These are incredibly serious charges – anybody found guilty of committing such heinous offences must face the full force of the law.
“The Labour Party took swift action to suspend Conor McGrath as soon as these allegations came to our attention. We cannot comment further while legal proceedings are ongoing.”