Second homophobic assault reported in Worcester in two weeks
A second homophobic assault has been recorded in the county town of Worcestershire in less than a fortnight.
Police in Worcester have assured the local gay community that they are “thoroughly investigating” both incidents.
Worcester News reports that outside a takeaway at 2.30am this morning, a man in his 20s was confronted and questioned about his sexual orientation and clothing.
Having had chips thrown at him, the man and his two friends left the scene but were followed and physically attacked, being left with cuts and bruises and police are appealing for witnesses.
The two main attackers were white and appeared in their 20s. One wore a white t-shirt and had blond hair, the other wore a dark t-shirt with red writing and had short dark hair.
Less than two weeks ago, a 19-year-old man was subject to physical abuse by five men as he left a nightclub and walked back to a car park late on the night of Friday 19 May.
Inspector John McKay said of the incident this week: “This was a violent and unprovoked attack and the victim was lucky to escape with minor injuries. However he has been left badly shaken by this assault, not least because he has told us it was because of his sexuality; this is supported by his friends as well as independent witnesses to the abuse he suffered.
“West Mercia Police does not tolerate hate crimes and we appeal for any members of the public who may have information about who the offenders were to contact us immediately. This sort of crime is rare in Worcester, but we have now had two similar assaults in the city within days of each other.
“At this stage we have nothing to connect the two incidents and we believe they are alcohol-related, but I would like to reassure members of our local gay communities that we are thoroughly investigating both and urge anyone who has any information to contact the police.”
Anyone with information should call 101 quoting 53S 29/05/12 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.
