The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has formally charged George Madgwick, the leader of Reform UK in Hampshire, with 35 criminal offences. The allegations cover a period between 2008 and 2021 and involve four victims who were aged 16 and 17 at the time of the incidents. The charges include 12 counts of rape, two counts of assault by penetration, and two counts of sexual assault.
In addition to the sexual offences, Madgwick faces charges for controlling or coercive behaviour, making indecent images of a child, causing or inciting sexual exploitation of a child, distributing an indecent image of a child, stalking, making threats to kill, false imprisonment, theft, and criminal damage. He is also charged with eight counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. The 37-year-old councillor, who represents North East Havant on Hampshire County Council and Paulsgrove on Portsmouth City Council, resides in the Anchorage Park area of Portsmouth.
Reform UK announced that Madgwick has been suspended with immediate effect following the charges. He is scheduled to appear at Portsmouth Magistrates' Court on November 25. The investigation by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary began on July 24, 2025, after a report of a sexual offence was received. Madgwick was first arrested on January 6, 2026, before being charged by the CPS earlier this week.
A spokesperson for the CPS stated that prosecutors have determined there is sufficient evidence and that it is in the public interest to proceed with the case. The service reminded the public that proceedings are now active and emphasized the defendant's right to a fair trial, urging against any reporting or commentary that could prejudice the legal process.
Madgwick recently gained media attention after being featured in an ITV News Exposure documentary titled Undercover: A Year In Reform. In the programme, he voiced support for the Portsmouth Patriots anti-immigration group. Following the broadcast, Madgwick accused the broadcaster of electoral interference and issued a statement suggesting the undercover reporting may have impacted the results of recent council elections.
Sources: BBC News UK.