Councilor imprisoned for sexually exploiting a teenage girl in Fife
Former Fife Councillor David Graham Convicted of Sexual Abuse
David Graham, a 43-year-old former Fife councillor, was convicted on the 23rd of July, 2025, for sexually abusing and grooming a teenage girl over a six- to seven-month period in 2023. The offences took place at various locations, including Graham's office, house, car, and other unspecified locations in the Fife and Edinburgh areas.
The timeline of events began with the offences occurring from February to August 2023. Graham was found guilty after a trial at Kirkcaldy Sheriff Court and sentenced nearly a month later on the 19th of August 2025. He was sentenced to 27 months' imprisonment and placed on the sex offenders register for 10 years.
The conviction resulted in Graham's disqualification from serving as a councillor on Fife Council, prompting a by-election in Ward 22 (Buckhaven, Methil, and Wemyss Villages) in the near future.
Authorities described Graham as a manipulative individual who abused his position of power and trust to exploit a vulnerable teenage girl. Fife Council and the Labour Party condemned his actions, with the council leader emphasizing the seriousness and betrayal involved, and the Labour Party issuing immediate expulsion from membership.
Law enforcement and child protection organizations praised the victim's bravery and encouraged others to report similar offences. The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) stated that Graham preyed on the youngster, and the offences amounted to three offenses, including engaging in sex activity with an older child, along with evidence of "planning" to avoid detection.
After being released on bail while awaiting sentencing, riot police were called to a mass protest outside his home, and his parents' home was also targeted. Councillor Ross, the local authority's leader, expressed his thoughts on the case, stating that it has shocked everyone. He also believes that David Graham should have resigned as a councillor as soon as he was convicted, if not before.
In summary:
- Offender: David Graham, 43, former Fife councillor
- Victim: Teenage girl, aged 13-15
- Timeline of offences: Feb - Aug 2023 (6-7 months)
- Locations: Fife and Edinburgh, including office, home, and car
- Conviction date: 23 July 2025
- Sentencing date: 19 August 2025
- Sentence: 27 months imprisonment, 10 years on sex offenders register
- Consequences: Disqualification from council, by-election triggered
- Official reactions: Strong condemnation, victim support, party expulsion
