Former Aberdeen Conservative councillor Alan Donnelly has joined Reform UK - but the party has launched a probe into his sexual assault conviction.
The former politician was convicted of the sexual offence following a trial at Aberdeen Sheriff Court in 2019.
The Press and Journal reports Donnelly feels he was "stitched up" and claims Reform chairman David Bull was "sympathetic" to his plight - something which is vehemently denied by the party.
Citing the "stitch up", Donnelly said: “This is part of the system we’re in now – this is why I went to Reform.”
In a stunning interview with the P&J, Donnelly also appeared to defend Prince Andrew and rubbish rape allegations against Russell Brand.
A Reform UK spokesman said Donnelly's recollection of his interaction with David Bull was "incorrect" and that the party was "shocked" to learn of his past, adding: "We shall investigate this matter further."
Click here to read the full article on The Press and Journal website.