Law enforcement officials "appalled" by Avon and Somerset unrest
Four people were arrested in Yeovil on Saturday
Three of the most senior representatives of law enforcement in the West Country have published an open letter to the people of Avon and Somerset, saying they are "appalled" by recent violence on the streets.
Demonstrations, many of which have descended into rioting, have taken place across the country since three young girls were killed in Southport on Monday 29th July. It's after misinformation spread online that the attacker was an illegal immigrant.
On Saturday 3rd August violence broke out in Bristol between anti-immigration demonstrators and counter protestors, while police arrested several people in Yeovil last Saturday (August 10th), one of whom has now been charged with possessing a knife in a public place.
Chief Constable of Avon and Somerset Police Sarah Crew, Clare Moody who is Avon and Somerset's Police and Crime Commissioner and Victoria Cook, who is Chief Crown Prosecutor in the South West, have published a joint letter this afternoon in response.
"As the Local Criminal Justice Board (LCJB) for Avon and Somerset, we are appalled by the recent violence in our area under the guise of protest," it reads.
"We fully support the right to lawful protest, but violence, disorder, criminal damage, and the fear that these actions generate, especially when they are motivated by hatred, will not be tolerated."
Such behaviour, they say, is not protest, but criminal behaviour, for which those responsible will pay a "heavy price".
"We want to reassure our communities that the Avon and Somerset Criminal Justice System are working together with pace, efficiency, and a shared single intent to take swift action against those involved in the criminal and lawless behaviour we have seen," the letter continues.
"Individuals have been arrested and charged, with some already facing court proceedings. As each day passes, more arrests are being made as the Police identify those who commit these crimes, whether they do so on the street or online.
"People should be in no doubt as to the consequences for them if they choose to engage in this criminal behaviour. Law abiding citizens can have confidence that we are playing our part in bringing those who do engage in it to justice swiftly and decisively."
Nearly two dozen people have been arrested in connection with the unrest in Bristol last month. You can see photos of several people the police want to identify, here.
You can read the full open letter from the Chief Constable, Police and Crime Commissioner and Chief Crown Prosecutor via this link.