Grays: Hate crime investigation

We are investigating an allegation of a hate crime in Grays.

The report was made to us on 24 February after a member of the public reported being distressed after attending a venue off Argent Street.

The investigation is being carried out under Section 4(a) of the Public Order Act 1986 and Section 31 of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998.

We have regularly discussed the progression of this case with the Crown Prosecution Service and on Tuesday 4 April, five officers visited a location off Argent Street, Grays, and seized several items in connection with that investigation.

No one has been arrested or charged in connection with the investigation and our enquiries are ongoing.

The force is proud of the work we do prevent crime, tackle offenders and build trust and confidence in all our communities.

We are aware some elements of the media have reported that Essex Police has been contacted directly by the Home Secretary in relation to this investigation.

At the time of writing, this is categorically not true. As a result, we would ask all media reporting this to amend their news reports immediately.

In addition, as is the case in all investigations across every police force, we maintain operational independence from the Home Office which ensures that every investigation is carried out without fear or favour.