No rise in reported Northamptonshire hate crimes after EU referendum

Hate crime has been a hot topic following the country’s decision to leave the European Union, with offensive leaflets aimed at the Polish community in neighbouring Huntingdon.

Officers in the county have reviewed local reports and have confirmed there has been no increase since the EU referendum.

Superintendent Chris Hillery, head of local policing at Northamptonshire Police, said: “Sadly some parts of the UK have seen an increase in community tension since the result of the EU referendum, and although we haven’t seen similar incidents in Northamptonshire, we have been in contact with different community leaders to offer reassurance.

“Any form of hate crime is unacceptable and I urge anyone who thinks they may have been victimised because of their ethnicity, faith, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or age to contact police to report it.

“Hatred has no place in our society and has the potential to cause serious physical and emotional harm.

“It damages communities and undermines the diversity and tolerance we should be celebrating.

“Everyone has a right to feel safe and confident about who they are. Being yourself is not a crime: hate crime is.”

Anyone who has experienced or witnessed a hate crime can contact police on 101, Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or use the True Vision website at www.report-it.org.uk.