Nine people who were arrested after a rough sleeper was attacked in Brighton have all been released under investigation.
Sussex Pooicecsaud: “At 2.43am on Monday (20 August), police were contacted by South East Coast Ambulance following a report of a serious assault in Old Steine.
“A man is reported to have been repeatedly punched and kicked by a group of youths at the location, close to St James’s Street.
“The victim, a 37-year-old man, was taken to Royal Sussex County Hospital for treatment and was later discharged the same day.
“He was initially understood to be of no fixed address, however it has since been clarified he resides in Portslade. He is not homeless or a rough sleeper, as has been reported by some media.
“Furthermore, this incident is not believed to be connected to the murder investigation launched following a serious assault on a rough sleeper at Royal Pavilion Gardens on 7 August.
“Following inquiries, police arrested nine people in Black Lion Street shortly after the incident, on suspicion of committing grievous bodily harm.
“They are seven men from Brighton and Hove, aged between 18 and 23, a 19-year-old man from London and a 22-year-old woman from Hove. They have all been released under investigation pending further enquiries.
“There was a large police presence at Old Steine on Monday (20 August) as forensics investigations were carried out and the scene.
“Anyone with any information about the incident is asked to report it online or call 101, quoting serial 99 of 20/08.
“Alternatively, you can visit the Crimestoppers website or contact the independent charity anonymously on 0800 555111.”
