A COUNCILLOR is being investigated over allegations that he showed pornographic images to a policewoman.
Denis Whittle is due to meet Rochdale council chief executive Roger Ellis with his political future hanging in the balance.
A female officer made a complaint after going to Coun Whittle's home last month to discuss reports of repeated anti-social behaviour in the area.
A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said there was no suggestion Coun Whittle had done anything illegal.
But the council is now investigating the allegation.
Coun Whittle was summoned to speak to the council's Liberal Democrat leader Alan Taylor and asked to give his version of events.
The pair will now meet the chief executive to discuss what action is taken.
Coun Taylor hit out at the actions of the policewoman.
He said: "I am amazed at the way she has handled this and am absolutely appalled that she went to the media before coming to us."
Allegations
He added: "I am aware of the serious allegations that have been made against Coun Whittle.
"Myself and Denis met to discuss them and we will both be meeting the chief executive.
"If the allegations are proved to be correct then the Liberal Democrat whip will be removed from Coun Whittle and he will be asked to stand down.
"The behaviour of any representative of our group should be beyond reproach.
"We will not tolerate any behaviour that brings the role of a councillor into disrepute."
Coun Whittle, a father of three, refused to discuss the matter when contacted by the Manchester Evening News.
Margaret Carney, the executive director of Rochdale council, said: "We have received a complaint, which is being investigated."
Coun Whittle, who was first elected in 2001, has made his name as an outspoken critic of anti-social behaviour among youths in the area.
In 2006, he said: "I have received eight death threats, threats to burn my house down, two of my kids have been beaten up, my dog has been severely injured and I have received other threats.
"I will not give up my crusade to clean up my streets of this filth, though."
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