Brexit hate crime rise: West Midlands PCC David Jamieson pledges swift action
The West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner says the force will take 'swift action' if there is an upsurge in hate crime in the wake of the EU referendum.
David Jamieson said that he has been contacted by members of the public who are concerned about reports on hate crime in recent days.
The National Police Chiefs' Council revealed there was an increase of reports to an online hate crime reporting site between Thursday and Sunday compared to the corresponding period four weeks ago.
Boris Johnson said he was "appalled" by reports of an increase in crimes of racism and xenophobia over the weekend.
Mr Jamieson said: "Let me make it clear, hate crime is not acceptable and tackling the crime is a priority of mine and West Midlands Police.
"We are all extremely proud that the West Midlands is a diverse region, where people from different backgrounds and cultures get on. That will not be allowed to change.
"I want to reassure people that we are monitoring the situation closely and if there is any upsurge in hate crime the police will take swift action.
"If you are a victim of, or see any evidence of hate crime, please report it to either the police or use one of the 188 third-party reporting centres across the West Midlands."
