Four Arrested Over North Yorkshire Facebook Violence

12 August 2011, 14:30 | Updated: 30 March 2016, 13:50

Police in North Yorkshire have arrested four men over claims they were trying to encourage people to cause trouble on Facebook and Twitter.

The force told Capital two men from York, both aged 18, were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit burglary, and two men from Thirsk, aged 24 and 27, on suspicion of conspiracy to commit violent disorder. All four men remain in custody.

North Yorkshire Police said they were pleased it had remained calm in their region and thanked the community for their spirit. The force said there continues to be an increased police presence and officers are closely monitoring those who support or encourage criminal activity on social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter. 

A Scarborough man was arrested earlier this week; however, he has been released without charge in relation to disorder.

Temporary Deputy Chief Constable Tim Madgwick, said: "We will not stand for any hint of incitement or encouragement to commit crime or violent disorder.

Even if there is no intention to carry out the threats, making such comments causes alarm and distress to many people.

We hope these arrests send a very clear message to anyone who foolishly thinks it's a good idea to use recent events to incite violence and criminality."

Officers from North Yorkshire Police are still helping forces down in London. Rest days have also been cancelled for officers in North Yorkshire so that there continues to be a high police presence in the county.

North Yorkshire Police continue to commit resources to the national policing response. A team returned from London overnight and were replaced with a new team who were dispatched yesterday.

To report any suspicious behaviour or information, please contact North Yorkshire Police on 0845 60 60 247. Or you can pass information to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.