Understand
Ashfield councillor convicted of fraud appointed to planning committee
Overview
Jason Zadrozny, a former Ashfield District Council leader recently convicted of fraud and tax evasion, has been appointed to the council's planning committee. Zadrozny resigned as leader following his guilty verdict but received the committee seat during an extraordinary full council meeting. The appointment has drawn criticism from local politicians, including a Labour MP and opposing councillors, who argue it undermines public trust.
Key points
- Jason Zadrozny was recently found guilty of fraud and tax evasion relating to a fake heritage group.
- He resigned as Ashfield District Council leader following his conviction and was replaced by Samantha Deakin.
- Despite his conviction, Zadrozny was appointed to the council's planning committee at an extraordinary full council meeting.
- Council documents indicated that political balance rules entitled non-aligned members, including Zadrozny, to a seat on the committee.
- Labour MP Michelle Welsh and several local councillors criticised the appointment as a failure of judgement that risks undermining public trust.
- Zadrozny is scheduled to be sentenced on 27 November and has been warned he faces a prison sentence.