Following an investigation by Rochdale CID, a teenager has been charged in connection with the criminal damage to the Cenotaph in Rochdale on November 7, 2023. The individual, whose identity cannot be revealed due to legal reasons, faces charges of racially aggravated criminal damage and theft.
Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Round reassured the public that such incidents are taken extremely seriously and that the authorities have been working diligently with local partners to address the matter. He emphasised that criminal damage towards Cenotaphs will not be tolerated in Greater Manchester, and the police will be resolute in bringing those responsible to justice.
While the charges have been filed against one individual, the investigation is still ongoing, and the authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Reports can be made by contacting the police at 101, quoting incident number 1294 of November 7, 2023. Alternatively, anonymous reports can be made through the independent charity Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.