MP Julian Knight says he is exploring “legal options” after an investigation into him over serious sexual offences was closed.
The politician, who was elected as a Conservative but now sits as an independent for Solihull in the West Midlands, said he had been told the investigation had been “closed without an arrest”.
Essex Police opened their investigation after Scotland Yard referred an allegation of serious sexual assault.
The Metropolitan Police had previously shelved its investigation into the MP, who was stripped of the Conservative whip, and it is not clear why the case was referred onwards.
Mr Knight said: “I am now exploring my legal options following the complaint I have made to the Metropolitan Police relating to fraud, forgery and perverting the course of justice.
“I wish to thank my Wife and my Wonderful Parliamentary team for their support during this time. I will be taking a little time now to choose my next steps and recover my mental health.“I reiterate that under no circumstances will I be seeking the Conservative Whip back.”
I have been told that the second Police Investigation into me has been closed without an arrest.
— Julian Knight MP (@julianknight15) February 29, 2024
I am now exploring my legal options following the complaint I have made to the Metropolitan Police relating to fraud, forgery and perverting the course of justice.
A statement from Essex Police said: “A man who had been voluntarily interviewed in connection with an investigation into allegations of serious sexual assault has been told he faces no further criminal action.
“The investigation related to alleged incidents outside of Essex which are non-recent.
“We carried out thorough enquiries and supported a number of people who came forward, including offering the support of an Independent Sexual Violence Advisor. ISVAs provide support and counselling, and guide people through the investigative process, and support them at court.
“Following our investigation, it was determined allegations of sexual offences did not meet the Full Code Test for a charging decision.
“We have liaised with the Crown Prosecution throughout. A file was presented to the CPS relating to other, non-sexual, offences. After receiving advice from the CPS, the Senior Investigating Officer decided there was insufficient evidence to proceed.
“As such the man has been told he faces no further criminal action.”
Mr Knight has announced he will stand down at the next election.
