Hate crime investigation launched after social media comments about missing Hartlepool man

Cleveland Police issued a call to help find the man, who had last been seen in the Greatham area of town last night, Thursday, June 11.

The social media appeal was followed up by a message this morning saying the man, who is black, had been “located safe and well.”

However, the force has been “made aware of a number of posts made by individuals of a racist nature” leading officers from its Hate Crime Investigation Unit to launch an investigation into the messages.

Chief Superintendent Thom Mcloughlin said: “As a result of comments of a racist nature made on a social media appeal overnight, we have instructed specialist investigators to review the matter and, where appropriate, we will take enforcement action.

“We will not tolerate racism on any level and all reports will be thoroughly investigated.”

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