POLICE are aware and investigating instances of fascist graffiti appearing in the Taunton and Trull areas after reports came in this week.

In recent weeks members of the Taunton community have reported a number of instances of fascist graffiti on lampposts and fences in the area.

A spokesperson from the Avon and Somerset Police told the County Gazette: “The Neighbourhood Policing team are aware of instances of offensive graffiti appearing in the Taunton town centre and Trull areas.

“Officers are working with partner agencies on this issue and are appealing for offences to be reported, so they can be investigated."

Last year in Avon and Somerset there were 135 hate crime offences linked to religion, as well as 2,537 racially motivated incidents and 297 disability-related hate crimes.

On a Facebook community post members of the Taunton public shared their thoughts on the rise in fascist graffiti in the area.

Dave Mann said: "This is a criminal act. Please report to the police. Fascism is extremely dangerous and we need to stop it infecting Taunton society."

John Ballard added: "I'm sure this would come under hate crime which should be reported to the police as well we don't need this with what's going on in the world today."

Mr Ballard is correct in saying it is a hate crime.

According to the Avon and Somerset Police website a hate crime is when someone commits a crime against you because of your disability, gender identity, race, sexual orientation, religion, sex or any other perceived difference.

Hate crimes can include:

  • Cyberbullying,
  • Offensive letters or text messages (hate mail) or phone calls,
  • Offensive leaflets and posters,
  • Physical attacks such as assaults,
  • Sexual harassment,
  • Threats of an attack,
  • Vandalism, criminal damage, graffiti or arson, and
  • Verbal abuse or abusive gestures.

If you see any offensive graffiti in your area you can report it to the police through their website here: https://www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/report/

We approached the Somerset West and Taunton Council for a comment on this issue and have not heard back from them.