THE Leader of Essex County Council has written to Roger Hirst, Police Fire and Crime Commissioner (PFCC) for Essex, following the conclusion of the court case on the murder of Henry Nowak.

Henry, a young man from Essex, was stabbed and died while on a night out at university in Southampton.

The letter, sent by Cllr Peter Harris to Mr Hirst, calls for “reassurance regarding the principles and practices that underpin policing in Essex”.

The letter is below:

Dear Mr Hirst,

Public Confidence in Policing and Equality Before the Law

Following the shocking case of Henry Nowak, I am writing to seek reassurance regarding the
principles and practices that underpin policing in Essex.

Whilst this tragic incident did not occur within Essex, the issues it has raised are of national
significance and have understandably generated concern amongst many residents about
public confidence in policing, the impartial application of the law, and the importance of
equal treatment for all.

Henry Nowak was a young man from Essex with his whole life ahead of him. The
circumstances surrounding his death, and the subsequent concerns raised about the actions
and decision-making of those present, have prompted widespread public debate and
scrutiny. Regardless of where people stand on the details of the case, it is clear that public
confidence in policing depends upon the belief that every individual is treated fairly,
professionally and without prejudice.

Essex residents must have confidence that police officers make decisions based upon
evidence, facts and the rule of law, free from political influence, ideology, bias or
assumptions.

They must also be confident that every victim, witness and suspect is treated
equally, regardless of race, religion, background or any other protected characteristic.

I am aware that policing nationally has undertaken significant work through various race
action plans, equality initiatives and diversity programmes. While many of these measures
have been introduced with positive intentions, concerns have been expressed by some
serving and former officers that they have at times felt constrained or pressured in carrying
out their duties. Such concerns, where they exist, should be listened to and properly
addressed.

I would therefore welcome reassurance as to the steps being taken within Essex Police to
ensure that officers feel fully supported in exercising their professional judgement, applying
the law impartially and acting solely in the interests of public safety and justice.

Attention has also focused on the national Police Race Action Plan and anti-racism guidance,
particularly wording stating that equality does not necessarily mean treating everyone
identically. I would value your views on the Plan and the current guidance.

In particular, I would be grateful if you could confirm how Essex Police continue to uphold
the fundamental principle of equality before the law, ensuring that no individual receives
preferential or disadvantageous treatment because of their race, ethnicity, religion, gender
or any other characteristic.

The overwhelming majority of Essex police officers serve our communities with dedication,
professionalism and courage. It is vital that public confidence in their work remains strong
and that residents know policing in Essex is based upon fairness, impartiality and
accountability.

I look forward to your response.
Yours sincerely,
Cllr Peter Harris
Leader of Essex County Council