Greenwich politician charged with fraud and perverting the course of justice
A South-east London politician is set to appear in court charged with fraud and perverting the course of justice.
An investigation by town hall chiefs into Greenwich councillor Tonia Ashikodi’s council tenancy and ownership of a number of properties, has led to her being charged with two offences of fraud by false representation, and perverting the course of justice.
The Glyndon ward Labour councillor is due to appear at Bromley Magistrates court on August 6, after the offences were laid before the court on Tuesday July 17.
Greenwich council’s chief executive Debbie Warren and head of legal services John Scarborough released a statement detailing the case.
They said: “Following the conclusion of a detailed criminal investigation carried out by the Council’s Internal Audit & Anti Fraud Team regarding Tonia Ashikodi’s council tenancy and the ownership of a number of properties, the Council has decided that there is sufficient evidence and it is in the public interest to charge Tonia Ashikodi with the following criminal offences:
“Two offences of fraud by false representation, contrary to sections 1 and 2 of the Fraud Act 2006.
Jointly with another, an offence of perverting the course of justice, contrary to common law.
Informations relating to these offences have been laid at Bromley Magistrates’ Court today and these will be served upon Ms Ashikodi in due course. Ms Ashikodi will be summoned to appear before the Magistrates’ Court on 6th August 2018 and the prosecution will be in the hands of the Court.
“Given Ms Ashikodi’s position as a Royal Borough of Greenwich Elected Councillor, there has been media speculation and public/press enquiries received by the Council. This statement is being made now in the interests of transparency/clarity and in order to avoid further speculation which is harmful to both the Royal Borough and the reputation of local government generally.
“Clearly, it is of paramount importance that Ms Ashikodi’s fundamental legal rights to both respond to these charges and receive a fair hearing are respected. Therefore, the Council will not be making any further comment on the matter which will continue to be dealt with by the Chief Executive and Head of Legal Services.”
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