Former Conservative Member of Parliament Crispin Blunt has been formally charged with four distinct drugs offences, including the possession of both Class A and Class B controlled substances. The 65-year-old ex-politician, who previously represented the Reigate constituency in Surrey, faces one count of possessing a Class A drug and three counts of possessing a Class B drug.
Police Investigation and CPS Statement
The charges stem from police searches conducted at Blunt's residential address in Horley, Surrey, on October 25, 2023. These searches were initially part of a separate, unrelated investigation. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has confirmed the charges, with Malcolm McHaffie, head of the CPS Special Crime Division, providing detailed commentary.
McHaffie stated, 'We have decided to charge Crispin Blunt, 65, with four drugs offences - one count of possessing a controlled drug of Class A and three counts of possessing a controlled drug of Class B. Our prosecutors have worked diligently to establish that there is sufficient evidence to bring this case to court and that it is in the public interest to pursue criminal proceedings.'
Collaboration with Surrey Police
The CPS emphasized its close collaboration with Surrey Police throughout the investigation. McHaffie added, 'We have worked closely with Surrey Police as they have carried out their investigation.' He also issued a stern reminder regarding the active nature of the criminal proceedings.
'We remind all concerned that criminal proceedings against this defendant are active and that he has the right to a fair trial. It is vital that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings,' McHaffie cautioned.
Blunt's Political Career and Court Date
Crispin Blunt served as a justice minister from 2010 to 2012 under the coalition government and was a long-serving MP before stepping down in 2024. His political tenure spanned several years, during which he held various roles and responsibilities within the Conservative Party.
Blunt is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on March 25 to face the charges. The case marks a significant development following the police intervention at his home last autumn.
The allegations involve serious drug offences, with Class A substances typically including drugs like cocaine, heroin, and ecstasy, while Class B drugs may encompass cannabis, amphetamines, and other controlled items. The legal process will now unfold as the court examines the evidence presented by the prosecution.
