Police explore ‘any legal precedents’ in Bob Vylan Glastonbury probe

Police investigating hateful comments made by music duo Bob Vylan at Glastonbury have confirmed a senior detective has been appointed to lead the probe as officers “consider all appropriate legislation” and explore any  legal precedents. 

Avon and Somerset police were contacted after frontman Bobby Vylan chanted “death, death to the IDF (Israel Defence Forces)” and went on an expltive-rideen rant about a “f***ing Zionist” he’d worked with during his set at the festival in June .

A spokesperson told Jewish News: “Enquiries continue to be carried out in relation to comments made during a performance on stage at Glastonbury Festival on Saturday 28 June.

“An investigative process has been put in place, which is being overseen and led by a senior detective, to ensure all necessary enquiries are carried out. This has been recorded as a public order incident at this time. Our investigation team is considering all appropriate legislation, including relating to hate crimes. It is also important we have a full understanding of any legal precedents, which is a complex process, and we are working closely with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) for early legal advice, and with other UK police forces.

“We recognise the strength of public feeling around what took place, and we hope the ongoing enquiries provide reassurance and show the seriousness with which we are treating this investigation. We will continue to ensure the public and media are updated as our investigation progresses.”

Police say neighbourhood teams are engaging with local communities and “key stakeholders” to reassure the public about “the seriousness with which we are treating this investigation”.

At the time, the BBC apologised for failing to cut its live stream of Bob Vylan’s set, calling the sentiments expressed “utterly unacceptable”. The band has since been banned from entering the United States ahead of a planned tour.