Leader of Essex County Council seeks reassurance from Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner

Leader of Essex County Council seeks reassurance from Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner

The Leader of Essex County Council has written to the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex following the conclusion of the court case on the murder of Henry Nowak.

Henry, a young man from Essex, was stabbed and died while on a night out at university in Southampton.

In his letter, Councillor Peter Harris wrote to Roger Hirst: “Whilst this tragic incident did not occur within Essex, the issues it has raised are of national significance and have understandably generated concern amongst many residents about public confidence in policing, the impartial application of the law, and the importance of equal treatment for all.”

Councillor Harris added: “Essex residents must have confidence that police officers make decisions based upon evidence, facts and the rule of law, free from political influence, ideology, bias or assumptions. They must also be confident that every victim, witness and suspect is treated equally, regardless of race, religion, background or any other protected characteristic.”

The letter continues: “I would therefore welcome reassurance as to the steps being taken within Essex Police to ensure that officers feel fully supported in exercising their professional judgement, applying the law impartially and acting solely in the interests of public safety and justice.”

The full letter can be read here.