Overview

• Leicestershire Police said they received a third‑party report about an ice‑cream van outside a polling station in May 2025 and are assessing whether this constitutes treating under electoral law.
• Footage reported by media outlets appears to show Joseph Boam, 22, giving out free ice creams from a reportedly family‑owned van during Reform UK’s local election campaign in North West Leicestershire.
• No charges or determinations have been announced, and Electoral Commission guidance states treating involves providing food, drink or entertainment with the purpose of influencing a person’s vote.
• Boam left his deputy leader and adult social care cabinet roles last month, with council leader Dan Harrison saying he wasn’t able to do the job.
• Boam disputes how his removal was characterized and has denied wrongdoing, while Reform UK declined detailed comment after winning 25 of 55 county council seats to form a minority administration.