Former Dudley Councillor Pleads Guilty to Grooming Offences Against Young Girls
A former Dudley councillor, who held positions on key children's services committees, has admitted to grooming two young girls for sexual activity. Adrian Hughes, aged 36, pleaded guilty to multiple charges related to offences against a 12-year-old and a 13-year-old girl.
Court Proceedings and Charges
Hughes appeared at Preston Magistrates' Court on March 13, where he admitted to three charges. In May 2025, he communicated with a 13-year-old girl, discussed meeting her, touched her sexually, and offered to teach her about sex. He also attempted to incite the same girl to engage in sexual activity that month.
Additionally, Hughes pleaded guilty to asking a 12-year-old girl to meet for sexual activity and sending her a nude photograph of himself. The offences highlight serious breaches of trust, given his former role in local government.
Background and Council Roles
Adrian Hughes was elected as a Labour Party councillor for the Upper Gornal and Woodsetton ward in 2022. He served on several committees focused on children's welfare, including the Children's Services Select Committee and the Overview and Scrutiny Committee from May to September 2023.
Prior to that, he was a member of the Children and Young Person's Scrutiny Committee and the Children's Corporate Parenting Board from May 2022 to May 2023. His involvement in these roles underscores the gravity of the offences, as he was tasked with protecting vulnerable young people.
Suspension and Removal from Council
Hughes was suspended from the Labour Party in October 2023 following an undisclosed complaint that triggered a party investigation. Despite relocating to the north of England, he initially stated he would continue serving as an independent member of Dudley Council.
However, he was removed from the authority in May 2024 after failing to attend any council meetings for six months. This removal marked the end of his tenure in local politics, amid the ongoing legal proceedings.
Upcoming Sentencing
The former councillor is scheduled to be sentenced at Preston Crown Court on April 24. The case has drawn significant attention due to his previous responsibilities in children's services, raising concerns about safeguarding and accountability in public office.
This development serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and ethical conduct among those entrusted with the care and protection of young people in the community.
