Police appeal not to try 'naming and shaming' man arrested following vandals attack on Thrapston War Memorial
"Speculation can often lead to a investigation being completely undermined," warns inspector
Detectives are warning the public not to speculate over the identity of a man arrested following last week's trashing of a Northamptonshire war memorial.
The unique Royal British Legion silent soldier statue was destroyed in Thrapston town centre while flower beds were ripped up and thrown over the street — just hours after the nation stood to honour fallen heroes on Armistice Day.
A community campaign to raise funds for a new statue has so far raised more than £4,600 after setting an initial target of £500.
Police revealed on Sunday that a 24-year-old man arrested on suspicion of the offence had been released on bail pending further enquiries.
Inspector Nathan Murray, said: “Firstly, I want to reassure the local community that we are doing everything we can to investigate this crime and bring the person who did it to justice.
“However, I would request that people do not speculate on social media or name people they believed to be involved.
"This is absolutely vital as speculation can often lead to a police investigation being completely undermined with the case unable to go to court and the opportunity for justice lost.
“I know it is difficult with such an upsetting incident but I also know that the community in Thrapston will want to do everything they can to help us progress this investigation.
“Finally, I would also like to use this opportunity to appeal again for anyone who may have seen anything suspicious in the area that night to get in touch.
"Similarly, if you have any pertinent CCTV or Ring doorbell footage in High Street and Oundle Road, please also contact us.”
Anyone with information that could help the Police investigation can call 101 using incident number 20000600514. Alternatively, anyone who wishes to remain anonymous, can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.