Detectives from Avon and Somerset Police are appealing for public help in identifying a man who may have crucial information regarding a recent hate crime against the Jehovah’s Witness community.
On the evening of Friday, 20 March, at around 8:20 pm, a threatening letter was left at a Jehovah’s Witnesses’ address in Minehead. This incident is part of a series of hate crimes targeting both the community and the Kingdom Hall on Mart Road.
As part of their ongoing investigation, police have released a CCTV image showing a man dressed in an unusual outfit: a white cowboy-style hat, chequered trousers, and a jumper featuring a white stripe down the sleeve. Detectives believe that this man could provide valuable information that might lead to a resolution.
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Officers have conducted extensive house-to-house inquiries, forensic examinations, and CCTV reviews. They are now urging anyone who saw the man in or around the town centre on that evening to come forward.
A man in his fifties has already been arrested but has been released on conditional bail as the investigation continues.
Detective Constable Louis Morris of the Criminal Investigation Department commented, “This is another incident in a broader investigation into hate crimes directed at the Jehovah’s Witness community. We remain committed to working closely with faith and community groups to provide support and ensure everyone’s safety.”
He added, “We encourage anyone who has any information, no matter how minor it may seem, to contact their neighbourhood officers or police directly. Hate crimes have no place in our communities, and we are determined to bring those responsible to justice.”
Witnesses or anyone with information about the man pictured or the incident are urged to contact Avon and Somerset Police on 101, quoting reference 5226045306, or submit details through the police online appeal form. For anonymous tips, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or via their online form.