Sat Dec 21 10:37:10 UTC 2024: ## Police Investigate Children for Name-Calling Amidst UK Hate Incident Controversy

**London, UK –** The recording of “non-crime hate incidents” (NCHIs) in England and Wales is sparking intense debate, with critics citing cases of children being investigated for name-calling and concerns about free speech. A recent study revealed that police have investigated children as young as nine for calling classmates names like “retard” and “smelling like fish,” highlighting widespread confusion among officers regarding what constitutes an NCHIs.

The controversy follows several high-profile cases, including that of journalist Allison Pearson, who was initially reported to be investigated for an NCHI, later clarified as a potential criminal offence, for a social media post deemed potentially inciting racial hatred. The investigation was eventually dropped. Similarly, right-wing activist Darren Grimes claims to have been investigated for an NCHI in 2020.

The Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 mandates the recording of NCHIs, defined as actions motivated by hostility or prejudice based on characteristics like race, religion, or sexuality. While supporters argue that monitoring NCHIs helps identify potential escalation to violent crime, critics argue it curtails free speech, wastes police resources, and targets individuals who shouldn’t be on the police radar. A Policy Exchange report estimates that over 60,000 police hours annually are spent on NCHIs.

Nick Herbert, chairman of the College of Policing, called for the government to scrap NCHIs, stating the practice has become an “impediment” to police work. This sentiment is echoed by the Free Speech Union, which describes NCHIs as a “chilling restriction” on free speech. Conversely, others, like Danny Stone of the Antisemitism Policy Trust, argue that NCHIs are crucial for identifying harm and preventing escalation.

The issue highlights a complex balancing act between protecting vulnerable groups and safeguarding freedom of expression. With complaints of NCHIs increasing and the debate intensifying, the future of this controversial practice remains uncertain. The Labour government is currently reviewing the policy, potentially reversing recent changes to broaden the scope of monitored incidents.

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