Archive - Tuesday, 11 June 2002


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Police investigated after Malton gypsies claim harassment

NORTH Yorkshire Police have appointed a top investigator to look into claims by Ryedale gipsies that they are being harassed by local officers.

The internal review was sparked after complaints by Hughie Smith, president of the National Gipsy Council.

"I am happy with the way the issue is being handled by the police and am looking forward to the outcome," said Mr Smith.

"I have received a letter from the police apologising for the fact that I felt I had to complain and with details about what they plan to do."

Mr Smith lodged a complaint with the Chief Constable last month on behalf of residents in Tara Park, on York Road, in Malton.

Now the head of professional standards at North Yorkshire Police, DS Carmel Napier, has ordered a review of the allegations.

DS Napier has appointed Superintendent David Short, from Malton Police, to carry out the review.

Mr Smith claimed residents were left feeling intimidated and harassed by "an almost continual police presence".

He said officers had removed a low loader belonging to one resident, only to return it weeks later and that police vehicles drive on and off the site at all hours of the day and night.

"I can't stand by and see these people harassed," Mr Smith told the Evening Press.

In the letter to Mr Smith, DS Napier writes: "I am sorry that you have had cause to complain about the local police response to residents of the Tara Park site.

"The North Yorkshire Police Service is committed to ensuring that all our staff contribute to, and recognise the diverse needs of the communities we serve."

Updated: 15:02 Tuesday, June 11, 2002