Lockdown is no match for homophobia it seems, as a man is kicked, threatened and called vile slurs in the street
A murder suspect fought police officers while naked after attempting to set fire to his gay victim’s apartment.
Police are still dealing with homophobia even as most of the country is confined to their homes, proving that not even a pandemic can prevent prejudice.
North Yorkshire Police are currently appealing for witnesses after a man was kicked, threatened and subjected to homophobic abuse in an attempted robbery last week.
The incident occurred on April 16 at around 7pm on Barbican Road in the city of York.
The victim was approached by a man who threatened him and attempted to rob him. When he tried to escape, the man kicked and assaulted him while hurling homophobic slurs.
A man aged 29 has been arrested in connection with the attack and charged with assault and attempted robbery.
Police appeal for witnesses.
Police are now calling for bystanders to get in touch so they can establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
A spokesman for the force said: “In particular, we are appealing for information to identify any witnesses. Anyone with information that could assist the investigation should contact North Yorkshire Police.”
Witnesses are asked to call 101, select option two and ask for T/DC 281 Kerry Smith, or email [email protected].
Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, quoting the North Yorkshire police reference number 12200063377.
Crime rates fall but domestic abuse rises as Britain remains under lockdown.
Outside of this isolated incident of homophobia, crime in general has fallen by more than 20 percent during the UK lockdown as police hand out £1,000 fines for those breaking lockdown restrictions.
Senior officers believe the drop in crime has been driven by the closure of bars and clubs, lack of large public events, and robbery and burglary being made more difficult by people staying at home.
However, domestic abuse has risen considerably as vulnerable people are forced to remain at home with their abusers.
LGBT+ people are particularly likely to struggle at this time as many return home to families who do not support their sexuality or gender identity.
Several LGBT+ charities have reported a rise in calls to their helplines, and one has urged young people to “hit pause” on coming out during the pandemic as it could be unsafe for them.
