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Police Probe Abuse After St George's Flag Confrontation in Braintree

The case highlights how a street display can trigger police inquiries over online abuse.

Overview

  • The Braintree resident filmed men fixing a St George's flag to a lamppost outside his home on Sunday.
  • The clip drew about 1.5 million views and was followed by threats, including a message about his pregnant partner, and a wave of fake reviews of his tattoo shop.
  • Essex Police said they received a report about the abuse and that inquiries are under way.
  • News reports say there is no suggestion the men who put up the flag sent the abusive messages.
  • Adam Willett has launched a petition urging Essex Highways and Essex County Council to remove unauthorised flags from public street furniture on safety grounds.