Who is Oliver Steadman? Former Labour Councillor Charged in Westminster Honeytrap Scandal

LONDON — Oliver Steadman, 28, a former Labour councillor from Islington, has been formally charged with blackmail and several communications offences in connection with the Westminster “honeytrap” scandal.

The Charges Against Oliver Steadman

The blackmail charge relates to alleged demands for the phone numbers of up to 12 individuals. He also faces five counts of communications offences after allegedly sending unsolicited indecent images.

According to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), the victims include men working in politics and Westminster.

Background: The Westminster Honeytrap Scandal

Between October 2023 and April 2024, several men in political circles received flirtatious WhatsApp messages from accounts under the names “Charlie” or “Abi.”

Some victims later reported that explicit images were exchanged. The case soon became known as the Westminster honeytrap scandal.

Labour Party Suspension and Resignation

Steadman was arrested in June 2024 and immediately suspended from the Labour Party. A month later, he resigned as councillor for Islington in north London.

CPS and Police Statement

Malcolm McHaffie, head of the CPS Special Crime Division, confirmed the decision to prosecute. He said prosecutors found “sufficient evidence” and ruled that pursuing charges is in the public interest.

The case follows a Metropolitan Police investigation into indecent WhatsApp messages sent to at least five victims in political roles.

Court Appearance Date

Steadman is expected to appear before Westminster Magistrates’ Court on November 3, 2025.

What Happens Next?

If convicted, Steadman could face a prison sentence. The case is expected to draw national attention, given its ties to Parliament and the Labour Party.