Police release CCTV images in hunt for a homophobe who viciously punched a gay man in the face
Police are appealing for these men to come forward and help with their enquiries (Warwickshire Police)
Police have released CCTV images of two men they are searching for in connection with a homophobic attack earlier this month.
The attack occurred at around 7.25pm on March 7 on Queens Road in the town of Nuneaton in Warwickshire, England.
The victim was a man in his 20s who was subjected to homophobic abuse and then punched in the face. He suffered minor injuries.
Warwickshire Police are now calling for the public to identify the two men seen in CCTV images, who may have information to help with their enquiries.
PC Kirsty Nichols said: “We believe the males pictured may have information to assist our ongoing investigation. Additionally, we would like to speak to anyone who witnessed the incident and has not yet spoken to police.
“Anyone with information can call 101 quoting incident 433 of 7 March 2020 or you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
The police statement referred to the assault as “homophobic” in nature but did not indicate whether or not officers are treating the incident as a hate crime.
Police would like to speak to this man to help their enquiries (Warwickshire Police)
Police would like to speak to this man to help their enquiries (Warwickshire Police)
With the number of hate crimes rising across the UK, Warwickshire Police’s response to homophobic abuse has previously come under scrutiny.
The police force made headlines last year when a local man who was a victim of repeated homophobic attacks was simply given a panic alarm and advised not to leave the house alone.
Bradley Hunt said he was “stunned” with the police response to his latest attack, which left him with broken teeth, a black eye, and damage to his nose, cheekbone and forehead.
The police were accused of doing nothing and being “less than helpful,” while the Founder of Warwickshire Pride, noted that such attacks were becoming commonplace.
Superintendent Mike Smith of Warwickshire Police replied at the time: “Warwickshire is a diverse place to live and the majority of people embrace this diversity. We are committed to playing our part in ensuring the county is a safe place to live, work and, visit for everyone.
“There are a small number who victimise people because of who they are. This is wrong and we are committed to addressing it.”
