Man arrested after swastika vandalism at park

A 42-year-old man arrested on suspicion of causing criminal damage has been bailed

A man has been arrested on suspicion of causing criminal damage after swastikas were drawn and carved onto benches at a West Sussex park.

Sussex Police appealed for information when the offensive symbols were discovered at Hotham Park in Bognor Regis last month.

The identified suspect was spotted by an off-duty officer, whose colleagues then made an arrest on Monday after a search of the suspect found three black marker pens and a template kit for a swastika.

Police said that a 42-year-old man of no fixed address has been bailed pending further enquiries.

More than 50 pieces of park furniture have been vandalised since the start of June, costing Arun District Council thousands of pounds to repair.

Sgt 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."

In response to the damage, the force said it had increased patrols and engagement in the area.

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