Inverclyde Council leader resigns as he faces domestic abuse trial

The leader of Inverclyde Council has resigned as he faces trial for domestic violence.

Labour’s Stephen McCabe denied the allegations against him when he appeared at Greenock Sherriff Court on Friday.

McCabe, 60, is accused of behaving in a threatening or abusive manner towards a woman in Kilmacolm, Inverclyde, on October 27 this year.

He also allegedly assaulted the same woman that day.

He has pleaded not guilty to both charges, court officials confirmed.

A further hearing will take place on January 14 next year, with a trial date set for February 10.

The 60-year-old has been suspended from the party as part of an investigation into his behavior, STV News has learned.

A Labor Party spokesperson said: “The Labor Party takes all complaints seriously.

“They are fully investigated in accordance with our rules and procedures, and all appropriate actions are taken.”

Following McCabe’s court appearance, an Inverclyde Council spokesperson confirmed he would cease to be council leader and a replacement would be appointed by elected members.

They said: “We can confirm today that Councilor McCabe has indicated that he has decided to step down from his role as leader of Inverclyde Council.

“Councillor McGuire, Deputy Leader, will continue in his role as deputy, in accordance with existing governance arrangements until a new leader is appointed.

“The leadership of the Council is determined by the elected members of the Council.

“The next meeting of Inverclyde Council will be on Thursday 5 December 2024.”

A Police Scotland spokesperson said earlier this month: “A 60-year-old man has been arrested and charged with domestic assault and breaching the peace.

“He was released on a promise to appear in court at a later date.

“A report will be submitted to the fiscal prosecutor.”