Assistant Chief Constable Mark Callaghan, of Dorset Police, says that the force continues to relentlessly investigate any reported crime and disorder linked to the recent protest activity and will take action against those suspected of being involved.
Police officers have been reviewing footage from recent Weymouth and Bournemouth protests and are building evidence to act against those reported to be involved in criminal activity, resulting in further arrests being made.
As part of enquiries into the protests on Weymouth Esplanade on Sunday 4 August 2024, a 47-year-old man from Bournemouth was arrested and charged with violent disorder and assault by beating of an emergency worker. He is due to appear at Poole Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 13 August 2024.
A further arrest was made of a 36-year-old man from Weymouth, who was subsequently charged with violent disorder and is also due to appear at Poole Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 13 August 2024.
Also, a 19-year-old man from Poole was arrested on suspicion of racially or religiously aggravated fear or provocation of violence. He has been released on police bail as further enquiries into the matter are conducted.
Assistant Chief Constable Callaghan commented: “We have been clear that we will not tolerate any reported violence, disorder or hate crime in our communities, and we will work with victims and community leaders from all areas to ensure victims are supported and robust action is taken.”