Detectives appeal following homophobic hate crime assault in Wavertree

We are issuing images of a youth who detectives think may have information following a homophobic hate crime assault in Wavertree last month.

At around 12.25am on Sunday 12 June, officers were called to the junction of Smithdown Road and Whittier Street to reports of a man in distress. A man in his 30s was found with a cut to the head, following an assault with a weapon, during which he was subjected to homophobic abuse. 

CCTV and witness enquiries have been ongoing and the victim is being supported by specialist officers. 
 
Detective Constable Rachael Barcas said: “This was a despicable and unprovoked attack, in which a man was left injured and extremely upset. We think the young person pictured may have information to assist our enquiries.

 
“It’s extremely disappointing that, especially during Pride month, someone has been subjected to such repugnant abuse. 
 
“If you were in the area and saw heard, or captured anything, including youths acting suspiciously, dashcam or other images, please come forward. We’re determined to find those responsible and eradicate such behaviour in our communities.”
 
Merseyside Police is committed to tackling hate crime across our communities. We would encourage all victims of hate crime to come forward as we have officers and staff dedicated to protecting victims who will make sure you are supported at every step as sensitively as possible. 
 
Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact @MerPolCC on Twitter or ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’ on Facebook with reference 22000404643. 
 
You can also call 999 if a crime is in progress, 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
 
If, for any reason, you do not wish to report a hate crime to the police, the independent charity Stop Hate UK to run a 24/7 confidential helpline for all victims of hate crime on 0800 138 1625 or www.stophateuk.org. You can also download the Stop Hate UK reporting app on Google Play or the Apple App Store.
 
Across Merseyside, we also have a number of third party reporting centres including fire stations, citizens advice bureaus and hospitals. A list of locations can be viewed here: merseyside-third-party-hate-crime-reporting-centres.pdf