Wiltshire’s former police and crime commissioner has been charged with making a false declaration in nomination papers prior to his election to the post.
Conservative candidate Jonathon Seed was elected to the role in May, but he later withdrew over a 30-year-old drink-driving conviction.
Thames Valley Police launched an investigation into the circumstances of the election and passed a file of evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), who have now advised officers to charge Mr Seed.
Rosemary Ainslie, head of special crime at the CPS, said: “The Crown Prosecution Service has today authorised police to charge Jonathon Seed with making a false declaration in the nomination papers for the Wiltshire 2020 police and crime commissioner elections.
“The charge relates to an allegation he made a false declaration that he was not disqualified from election as a police and crime commissioner.
“The CPS made the decision that he should be charged after reviewing a file of evidence from Thames Valley Police.
“The CPS reminds all concerned that criminal proceedings against this defendant are active and that he has the right to a fair trial.
COVID-19: Bereaved families campaign group can now attend Conservative conference after initially being rejected
Charlie Elphicke: Ex-Tory MP released from prison after serving half his sentence for sex assault
Cabinet reshuffle: New schools minister announced – but vaccines minister yet to be named
“It is extremely important that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice proceedings.”
Mr Seed, who is a Wiltshire councillor, is due to appear before Oxford Magistrates’ Court next month.
He had won a combined total of 47% of the police and crime commissioner vote in May.
A by-election was held for the post last month, and Conservative Philip Wilkinson was elected.
A Conservative Party spokesman said: “As this matter is now subject to criminal proceedings it would not be appropriate for us to comment further.”