Patrick Spencer cleared of sexual assault charges at Groucho Club
Conservative MP Patrick Spencer has been acquitted by a jury of sexually assaulting two women at London’s Groucho Club, reports BritPanorama.
The 38-year-old, who was elected as MP for Central Suffolk and North Ipswich in 2024, faced allegations from an incident in August 2023 where he reportedly put his arms around the women in a private members’ area. Accusations included “cupping” their breasts and a celebratory gesture towards friends after the interactions.
During a police interview, Spencer admitted to grabbing the women and stated it was “not acceptable” in today’s society. However, he testified that he did not touch one of the women’s breasts, claiming any contact was accidental, while asserting he was “mortified” rather than celebratory when rejected.
The jury at Southwark Crown Court deliberated for over seven hours before reaching a not guilty verdict on two counts of sexual assault. Upon hearing the verdict, Spencer covered his face with trembling hands before breaking down in tears and embracing his wife, Anna.
Following the trial, he expressed gratitude towards his supporters, stating, “Our shared nightmare is now over,” and emphasized his long-standing claim of innocence, describing the verdict as a conclusion to a challenging period in his life.
Spencer recalled consuming alcohol during the day that included red wine at lunch and cocktails in the members’ club, but asserted he could not remember the specific incidents that sparked the allegations. The women involved testified that they felt “shocked” and “frozen” during the encounter.
In previous police interviews, Spencer described his actions as “a moment of complete stupidity,” denying any intention to inappropriately touch the women. He identified himself as “overfriendly” and acknowledged that his behaviour might appear questionable.
Despite his claims, CCTV footage and witness testimonies contributed to a complex case. Spencer was surprised to be ejected from the club, assuming it was due to his behaviour rather than the alleged assaults.
An investigation into the matter faced criticism for its initial handling; a Metropolitan Police officer did not pursue the allegations after they were first reported. Following complaints about the investigation’s stagnation, the Met reviewed the case in early 2025, leading to new inquiries and charges being filed by the Crown Prosecution Service.
Commander Andy Day of the Met acknowledged the deficiencies in the initial investigation and reiterated the commitment to addressing violence against women. However, the officer responsible for the oversight faced no disciplinary actions.
Spencer, who lost the Conservative whip after the charges were brought, has served as an independent MP while awaiting trial. He was supported throughout the court proceedings by his wife, who lauded his parenting skills and described him positively, underscoring the personal stakes involved in the case.
As the dust settles on this high-profile case, the incident underscores ongoing discussions about accountability and the treatment of women in such contexts.
