Introduction: Brighton Bill: Homophobia (02:19)

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Brighton is home to one of Britain’s largest gay and lesbian communities. There has been a concerning spike in homophobic attacks in the city, with one in three gay men experiencing violence; yet many assaults go unreported.

Gay Village Attack (03:22)

The St. James Street area is the focus of some of the most vicious attacks. Graham is one of two gay men that were victims of attempted murder during an incident that was captured on CCTV.

Suspects Arrested (04:18)

Police identify two suspects, enter their residence, and make arrests. The teens have recently shaved their heads, meaning the victims’ blood might be found in their hair samples. Nine out of 10 homophobic crimes are committed by white males under the age of 25.

Key Evidence Found (02:26)

The violent attack has sent shockwaves through the gay community. Sgt. Stuart Bannister has returned to the suspects’ house. Police find a pair of trainers and hope to match their tread to marks on the victim’s face.

Community Meeting (03:20)

Businesses have been targeted as well as individuals. Homophobes have broken windows and sprayed homophobic slurs on a new men’s salon on St. James Street, and they have hurled stones at members of the staff. The gay community has demanded a more visible police presence.

St. James Street Beat Cops (03:42)

Grant McKee is a new officer; he joins Richard Hamlin, the area’s regular beat cop. They talk to a local man who describes a spike in recent violence and says his friends are afraid to go out after dark.

Street Outreach Service (02:50)

The seafront cruising area in Brighton has always been a controversial area for policing. It has also been the scene of many attacks. The Street Outreach Service provides a link to gay men who use the area. Police have regular meetings with Andrew Hoyt, who mans the station.

Anti-Victimization Unit (04:50)

Seven more attacks occur in the next six months, despite the presence of CCTV and other countermeasures. Sussex Police set up an anti-victimization unit that will specifically investigate homophobic crime. Graham contemplates why he was targeted; his attackers were sentenced to seven years.

Credits: Brighton Bill: Homophobia (00:27)

Credits: Brighton Bill: Homophobia