Police are investigating after a Birmingham City Council candidate said he and his family were targeted with malicious emails. Paul Smith, who is standing as an independent candidate for Allens Cross in Northfield, said the messages were sent to his wife and his workplace.
Candidate speaks out
Smith issued a statement on social media, saying: 'My family and I have recently been targeted by a series of malicious emails, sent to my wife and even my place of work, clearly intended to cause distress.' He added that the matter has been reported to the police and city council officials.
Believing the emails to be politically motivated, Smith said: 'This is not what politics should be about. I’m standing to serve our community with integrity, and I won’t be distracted from that.'
Police investigation
A West Midlands Police spokesperson confirmed: 'An investigation is underway after we received a report of harassment taking place between 9 and 14 April. We are carrying out enquiries to establish exactly what’s happened, and are in the process of speaking with those involved.'
Background
The election for Allens Cross ward takes place on May 7, following the resignation of former councillor Jack Deakin in December after months of non-attendance. Smith, running as an independent, said he 'won't let the bullies win' and vowed to continue his campaign with respectful, honest campaigning.
