STORY
Christopher Joell-Deshields, the former chief executive of Pride in London, has admitted one count of contempt of court in the latest twist in the long running row over his conduct at the organisation. The case centres on claims that he failed to comply fully with a court order linked to the handover of Pride in London property and access to organisational accounts during an investigation into his behaviour. Reports say he denied other elements of the contempt case, but admitted failing to provide a statement confirming compliance with the order.
The admission comes after Pride in London said earlier this month that Joell-Deshields’ employment had been terminated following an independent investigation, with an appeal against that decision also rejected. The organisation said it is now putting in place a new governance structure, while interim chief executive Rebecca Paisis said Pride in London would operate to the highest standards.
The wider scandal is becoming more deeply serious with allegations of misconduct being levelled against Joell-Deshields including financial mismanagement, misuse of sponsor funded volunteer vouchers and claims of a toxic working culture, all of which he has denied.