Four charged following anti-social behaviour in Telford

Four people have been charged following anti-social behaviour in Telford on Saturday (27 Jan).

The protest was organised by right-wing activist and former leader of the English Defence League, Tommy Robinson. A counter-protest was organised by Stand Up to Racism.

During the protest a video about child sexual exploitation (CSE) in Telford was screened.

Mr Robinson said on Saturday. "We want to give a voice to the voiceless."

On Facebook, Stand Up to Racism accused him of "attempting to use the victims of appalling child sexual exploitation cases in order to divide our community and push his agenda."

Police said the protest ended without any significant issues.

Telford Local Policing Commander, Superintendent Jamie Dunn, said: “I’d like to thank local residents, businesses and those visiting the town centre for their support and understanding while the protests took place."

West Mercia Police said in a statement on its website: "In July 2022, West Mercia Police made an unequivocal apology to victims and survivors of CSE after the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Exploitation (IITCSE) was published."

The following people were arrested after failing to give their names and addresses to a constable relating to anti-social behaviour:

1. Williams Simmonds, 24, of Eggington Road in Stourbridge
2. Erin Dawson, 24, of Albert Road in Manchester
3. Neve MacLaughlin, 29, of no fixed abode
4. Milo Spearman, 23, of Hubert Road in Birmingham

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