Arrest made after swastikas were carved into Bognor park benches
A man has been arrested after racist graffiti caused thousands of pounds worth of damage to street furniture at Hotham Park in Bognor Regis last month
Last updated 3rd Jul 2025
A man has been arrested after swastikas and other offensive symbols were drawn and carved into street furniture at Hotham Park, Bognor Regis, causing thousands of pounds worth of damage.
Sussex Police launched an appeal for information following the incident, which saw more than 50 items targeted last month. A 42-year-old man, who has no fixed address, was identified as a suspect.
An off-duty police officer spotted the man in Bognor and alerted colleagues, leading to his arrest on Monday, 30 June. Officers found three black marker pens and a swastika template kit on him.
Sergeant Ross Beaumont said: “We are aware this damage caused notable upset, along with gaining national media attention, and would like to express gratitude for the public’s support in disrupting this behaviour.
"Bognor Regis is an exceptional community that we take pride in, and this is a phenomenal example of people coming together to remind those with ill intent that it will not be tolerated in this town.
"The suspect has been bailed with conditions whilst enquiries continue, which we are progressing with pace.”