Police will not tolerate hate crime

POLICE today sought to provide reassurance to minority communities in Warrington and across Cheshire that hate crime will not be tolerated in the wake of the European Union referendum.
They called on  those who may be victims to feel confident in reporting incidents to appropriate authorities, including the police.
Assistant Chief Constable Sarah Boycott, who leads the force’s neighbourhood policing team, said: “In my experience here in Cheshire we treat all communities with tolerance and respect, and long may that continue.
“But in light of some incidents we’ve seen in other parts of the country I want to make it clear to our minority communities that we’re here for you, and we don’t accept racism or threats to those because of the colour of their skin or where in the world they were born. That’s hate
crime, and we take firm action wherever we come across it.
“There are a number of ways to contact people can report hate crimes – directly to the police, via the TruVision website, or through reporting centres in most large towns.
“But if you feel at threat you should call us on 101, or in an emergency on 999.”
There has been no upsurge in reported hate crimes in Cheshire following recent events, but the Constabulary has moved to remind all communities that hate crime is a criminal offence, and to reassure minority communities that it will take appropriate action whenever a hate crime takes place.
Anyone who has been a victim of a hate crime or sees a crime in action in your community should contact Cheshire police on 101. Victims will be taken seriously and dealt with sensitively. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.