A FORMER councillor-turned-businessman is accused of manslaughter, following the death of an employee.
John Elders, 48, appeared at Teesside Magistrates' Court to face three allegations relating to the death of Stanley Dawson, 50.
Mr Dawson, of Huxley Walk, Hartlepool, died after falling from a warehouse skylight while working for Mr Elders' company, Factorycover.
The ex-Tory councillor is accused jointly with the firm of manslaughter, failing to make a risk assessment and failing to ensure an employee's safety.
Mr Dawson was working as a sub-contractor at ICI Belasis, in Billingham, Teesside, when the accident happened, last May.
At the hearing, the case was adjourned. Mr Elders, of Elwick, Teesside, was granted unconditional bail until his next appearance at Teesside Crown Court, on July 3.
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