Investigation into Journalist Over X Post Closed by Police
Telegraph columnist Allison Pearson was under investigation by Essex Police for allegedly inciting racial hatred, but they refused to disclose the specific post that had been reported.
Essex Police have now closed the investigation, stating that the online post in question has been deleted. An independent review will be conducted to assess the handling of the case amidst concerns over free speech and the use of police resources.
Pearson, known for her pro-Israel stance on the Gaza conflict, was approached by police on Remembrance Sunday regarding a year-old post on a social media platform. Despite being asked to attend a voluntary interview, she chose not to cooperate as the police did not specify which post was under scrutiny.
The incident highlighted the debate surrounding non-crime hate incidents (NCHIs) that fall short of criminality but are still documented by police. Pearson’s experience sparked a backlash, drawing attention from notable figures like Boris Johnson, Liz Truss, and Elon Musk.
Following advice from the Crown Prosecution Service, Essex Police announced that no charges would be brought after an investigation under the Public Order Act. The National Police Chiefs’ Council hate crime lead will oversee an independent review of the case.
Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch and shadow home secretary Chris Philp have called for a review of NCHI guidelines following Pearson’s ordeal. The case has triggered discussions on freedom of expression and the appropriate use of police resources.
Nigel Farage of Reform UK has expressed delight over the dropped case and advocated for the repeal of laws around hate speech. Pearson, reflecting on the incident on her podcast, emphasized the distress caused by the police visit.