Suspended Pride in London chief ordered to relinquish control amid misconduct allegations
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The chief executive of Pride in London, Christopher Joell-Deshields, has been ordered by the High Court to surrender control of the organisation’s bank accounts, digital assets, and company devices following allegations of financial misconduct and workplace bullying.
Joell-Deshields, 54, who has led the LGBTQ+ event since 2021, is currently on a leave of absence while an internal investigation is underway. The London LGBT Community Pride (LLCP), the community interest company behind the annual parade, sought legal intervention after accusing Joell-Deshields of misusing sponsor-donated vouchers worth over £7,000 to purchase luxury items including perfumes and Apple products.
The High Court’s injunction compels Joell-Deshields to hand over all access credentials to Pride in London’s bank accounts, social media platforms, and email systems. He must also return his mobile phone and laptop by 4pm on 15 September. The court further barred him from making any unauthorised announcements on the organisation’s digital channels.
Legal documents allege that Joell-Deshields breached multiple contractual obligations and posed a risk of “irreparable damage” to future Pride events. LLCP claims his refusal to relinquish control following suspension obstructed staff and volunteers from performing their duties.
Joell-Deshields, represented by barrister Marc Brittain, consented to the court order but denies any wrongdoing. Brittain emphasised that his client’s cooperation should not be interpreted as an admission of guilt.
Additional allegations include fostering a toxic workplace culture, making inappropriate comments to a disabled volunteer, and reinstating a previously dismissed individual accused of bullying. Joell-Deshields has described the investigation as a “witch hunt” and maintains that he remains in his role, despite the board’s actions.
The controversy has sparked concern across the LGBTQ+ community, with volunteers warning that the scandal could jeopardise the future of Pride in London, which drew over 1.5 million attendees this year. LLCP has reassured stakeholders of its commitment to a thorough investigation and to maintaining a safe, inclusive, and legally compliant organisation.
