06/03/2009

Mayor Questioned Over Alleged Corruption

An elected mayor has been arrested in connection with a police inquiry into alleged corruption, it has emerged.

Mark Meredith, 42, Stoke-on-Trent - who was elected in May 2005 - was detained by police on suspicion of misconduct in a public office and complicity in corruption while in public office.

It is understood Mr Meredith is being questioned by detectives from Staffordshire Police.

It follows the arrest on 27 February of another Stoke-on-Trent city councillor, Roger Ibbs.

Mr Ibbs, 61, stood down as leader of the Conservative and Independent Alliance group and portfolio holder for children and young people’s services earlier this week following his arrest.

Mr Ibbs has since tendered his resignation from the Conservative Party. He has publicly vowed to clear his name.

The 61-year-old said his arrest followed a complaint he made to the council.

Staffordshire Police said the force's major investigations department was conducting a "thorough, objective and detailed" inquiry.

Mr Meredith has been in the post of mayor since 2005, when he beat incumbent independent Mike Wolf.

(JM/BMcC)

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