Suspended Tory councillor hits out over 'hanging' threat
BBCA Worcestershire councillor has hit out after he was abusively targeted on social media - with someone suggesting he should be hanged.
Councillor Adam Kent was suspended by the Conservative Party last week after he struck a now-abandoned deal to share power with the Greens, Lib Dems and independents at Worcestershire County Council.
The social media post on X said he should be hung, drawn and quartered. The council has reported it to West Mercia Police.
Kent said: "All I'm trying to do is help residents in Worcestershire. What a way to treat somebody."
The post, which has been viewed hundreds of times, also said Kent had "smeared" the Conservative Party, adding: "Personally I would advocate hanging, drawing and quartering".
It comes just days after Labour councillor Richard Udall hit out over abusive remarks on social media after someone threatened to poison his dog.
Kent said: "The social media post was pointed out to me - how do you think I feel?
"Is it no surprise we can't get so many people interested in politics.
"It's completely unacceptable. Am I now going to have police looking after me, as a councillor from Wythall, who's just trying to help residents? It's just not on."
'The support has been massive'
Kent has also paid tribute to the people who have supported him since his suspension, including fellow councillors from all parties.
He is still deputy leader of the authority, despite the Tories pulling out of a power-sharing deal after the national Conservative Party (CCHQ) intervened.
"Do you honestly think anyone is going to want to be a councillor when they see things like this?" Kent said.
"But don't get me wrong, I've had a massive amount of support locally. One councillor saw me a few days ago and gave me a big hug.
"I've had Conservatives worried about me, people from Reform have phoned up who are worried about me - everyone (from all parties) has supported me.
"Richard Udall has come out and talked about his problems, and now it's me. It's unacceptable. And I think national politicians have got to tone down the rhetoric."
Kent has said he cannot comment on his suspension.
Three Tory councillors have since quit the cabinet and bailed on the coalition, with the authority now led by a minority Green-Lib Dem-independent administration.
A spokesperson for the council said: "We can confirm that the social media post has been reported to the police."
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