Two arrested after assault and property damage incidents in Hartlepool
Cleveland Police are not linking the incidents to organised crime
Two people have been arrested following two separate incidents in Hartlepool involving groups gathering outside properties, an assault and damage to a home.
Cleveland Police said officers were first called to an address in the Hartlepool area on Friday, August 28, after a group gathered outside claiming they were taking part in a peaceful protest.
A 29-year-old man was reportedly assaulted and racially abused during the incident, while his bag was also stolen.
He was taken to the University Hospital of North Tees for treatment and remained there overnight.
A 54-year-old man from Hartlepool has since been arrested on suspicion of robbery. He remains in police custody.
Police were called to a second property at around 12.30pm on Saturday, August 29, after rocks and bricks were thrown at the address, smashing windows.
Officers said children were inside the property at the time, while a group of people had gathered outside.
A 46-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of obstructing or resisting a constable in the execution of duty. She has also been taken into custody.
Police have maintained a highly visible presence in the area following the incidents, with officers expected to remain in Hartlepool over the coming days to provide reassurance to residents and help prevent further disorder.
Police say the incidents are not being linked to organised crime.
Superintendent Paul Richardson, from Cleveland Police, said:
“Whilst police will facilitate a peaceful and lawful protest, any escalation of violence or criminality will be dealt with appropriately and robustly.
"We will not tolerate incidents such as these, where groups of people target individuals and cause people harm or destroy property.
"Anyone who carries out this type of mindless behaviour can expect to be arrested and put before the courts.”