Conservative MP Patrick Spencer has been found not guilty of sexually assaulting two women at the Groucho Club in London. The verdict, delivered after over seven hours of jury deliberation, clears Spencer of two counts of sexual assault stemming from an incident in August 2023. The case has drawn significant media attention due to Spencer's political position and his father's status as a billionaire Conservative donor.
Details of the Allegations
Prosecutors alleged that Spencer “cupped” the breasts of two women he did not know at the private members' club, then performed a “fist pump” gesture toward friends. The MP, who was elected to the seat of Central Suffolk and North Ipswich in 2024, claimed he only intended to give the women a hug. During his police interview, Spencer apologized for grabbing the women from behind, calling it “not acceptable in this day and age.”
Courtroom Testimony
At Southwark Crown Court, Spencer insisted he did not touch one woman's breasts and that contact with the other was unintentional. He described the fist pump as a reaction to being “mortified” after the second woman pushed him away. The MP told the court he had consumed red wine with his father, beers at Twickenham, and cocktails at the club, and could not recall the incidents.
Comparison of Key Evidence
| Evidence Type | Prosecution Claim | Defense Claim |
|---|---|---|
| Physical contact | Cupping of breasts | Unintentional hug attempt |
| Gesture after incident | Celebratory fist pump | Mortified reaction to rejection |
| Memory of events | Selective recall | No recollection due to alcohol |
| Jury verdict | Guilty of two counts | Not guilty on all counts |
Key Takeaways from the Trial
- Not guilty verdict after seven hours of jury deliberation.
- Spencer broke down in tears and embraced his wife after the verdict.
- The MP maintained his innocence throughout, calling the ordeal a “shared nightmare.”
- His father, Michael Spencer, is a prominent Conservative donor.
- The case highlights the role of alcohol and consent in sexual assault trials.
FAQ
What was Patrick Spencer accused of?
Patrick Spencer was accused of sexually assaulting two women by cupping their breasts at the Groucho Club in London in August 2023.
What was the verdict in the Spencer trial?
The jury found Spencer not guilty of two counts of sexual assault after deliberating for just over seven hours.
Did Patrick Spencer apologize for his actions?
Yes, during his police interview, Spencer apologized for grabbing the women from behind, calling it unacceptable, but maintained he did not intend to grope them.
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