Glenn Gibbins, a Reform UK councillor elected to represent Sunderland's Hylton Castle ward in May, has been charged with posting a grossly offensive comment on social media. The 66-year-old faces an offence under the Communications Act 2003.
Details of the charge
The charge relates to a post from 2024 that referenced the Nigerian community. Northumbria Police investigated after receiving a report about the comment in May 2026. Officers submitted a file to the Crown Prosecution Service, which authorised the charge.
Court appearance
Gibbins, who lives in the Sunderland area, is due to appear before South Tyneside Magistrates' Court next month. A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: "We are aware there has already been significant interest in relation to this individual and the social media post. We would urge people not to speculate both online and in the community in relation to this case."
