Sussex Police said sorry after an officer’s comments at a demo in Brighton at the weekend caused “deep offence” to many people, particularly the Jewish community.
The force also said this evening (Mondy 9 June) that an investigation was under way into racially aggravated public order offences in relation to comments made by others at the protest.
Sussex Police said: “Police are investigating reports of racially aggravated public order offences in Brighton.
“The reports relate to offensive comments made during demonstrations at the Clock Tower on Saturday (7 June).”
Chief Superintendent Rachel Carr, the police divisional commander of Brighton and Hove, said: “We are aware that the ongoing conflict in Israel and in Gaza is generating public concern that impacts communities globally and locally.
“We are committed to ensuring any reported offences are investigated proportionately, without prejudice and in line with legislation, while recognising the complexities and sensitivities of the issue.
“Following an initial review of available footage, an investigation has subsequently been launched into the original reports and inquiries are under way into the full circumstances.
“We acknowledge the language used by an officer at the demonstration has caused many people, particularly those in the Jewish community, deep offence.
“We wholeheartedly apologise for this. This was an unintentional act and does not reflect our position.
“We continue to engage with our communities and partners to ensure people feel safe and protected.”
The force added: “Sussex Police will facilitate peaceful protest and a police presence was in place to keep people safe and minimise disruption to the wider community.
“Anyone with information or relevant footage is asked to contact police online or by calling 101, quoting Operation Smallmead.”
HE should be apologising, not the force. Will he be sacked? He’s supposed to be a police liaison officer, clearly he wasn’t at the training day.
It would be very helpful if you shared what he said
I remember when Sussex Police facilitated the closure of the Sodastream shop on Western Rd. Allowed Tiny Tony Greenstein and his wet dog smelling rabble to harass and threaten those who would stand against them and their terrorist funders.
Israel is a Failed Terrorist State time to send the Zionists packing
Hi Adolph,
I think you really meant to say Jews. We see you.
Why on Earth would anyone choose to defend rapists and baby killers?
There are some sick people out there.
Is this childishly loaded question supposed to achieve anything apart from an utterly misplaced sense of righteous cleverness on your part?
Nobody supports rapists and baby killers. Various people have their own perspectives on what is a very complex geopolitical situation, for various reasons.
One day you might be mature enough to discuss it with grown ups. It doesn’t look like today, though.
Why on earth would anyone choose to defend rapists and baby killers – I assume you’re referring to the I.D.F.?
You assume wrong. Have another go.
The IDF have been have been fighting terrorists and have shown great restraint in their actions. Hamas have placed their command centers under hospitals, hiding away and place civilians to act as human sheilds. The actions of the IDF could end with the release of the hostages they hold. Hamas choose not to do this.
As much restraint as a cat playing with a mouse..
Two tier.policing again