Conservative MP Patrick Spencer is found not guilty of sexually assaulting two women during an incident at London’s Groucho Club. Multiple outlets report that the jury returned not guilty verdicts on both counts after deliberations lasting more than seven hours. The case relates to conduct alleged to have occurred during a night out at the private members’ club in August 2023. Coverage describes Spencer as reacting visibly when the verdicts were delivered, including covering his face and later breaking down in tears. The Guardian and other reports say Spencer had told the court his actions were not sexual and that he intended to “give them a hug.” Several outlets also refer to CCTV footage and testimony about what happened, including that Spencer approached two women from behind and placed his arms around them. The decision clears him of the sexual assault charges tied to the incident, with his election to the seat of Central Suffolk and North Ipswich occurring before the verdict.