Ten Ashfield Councillors Resign Following Leader Jason Zadrozny's Fraud Conviction

Ten councillors from the Ashfield Independents political group have resigned, stating they can no longer affiliate with the party following their leader, Jason Zadrozny's, conviction for fraud.

Mr Zadrozny, aged 43, was found guilty of defrauding Nottinghamshire County Council of £3,000 by submitting false invoices for community events that never occurred. The convictions relate to a period between 2005 and 2008.

Despite the convictions, Mr Zadrozny has maintained his innocence and stated he intends to appeal the decision. He continues to serve as a councillor for both Ashfield District Council and Nottinghamshire County Council. The district council previously confirmed it would not compel his resignation.

The departing councillors, who include two former leaders of Ashfield District Council, have indicated they will continue to serve as independent councillors. Their resignations represent a significant restructuring of political allegiances within the Ashfield Independents group, which previously held a dominant position on the district council.