Police Statement

"In July 2022 Cheshire Police received reports of suspicious transactions on a parish council bank account.

An investigation into the matter was launched and since then officers have been actively following a number of lines of enquiry.

Two suspects have been arrested on suspicion of fraud, and they are both currently released under investigation, having been questioned several times.

Several documents, mobile phones and other electronic devices have also been seized as part of the investigation, and these are all currently being analysed by officers.

Detectives have also taken statements from several other witnesses and have also been analysing the parish council's financial accounts.

While we understand the frustration at the length of time the investigation has taken, this is a complex case, and we need to ensure that all evidence is recovered so that it can be presented to the Crown Prosecution Service.

This is a very much a live investigation and while our enquiries are ongoing, we would encourage people not to speculate.

Further updates will be provided when available."

CBell
Carol Bell
Clerk to Audlem Parish Council
Mobile: 07783580406