Epsom Church Minister Condemns Intimidating Protest Over Alleged Gang-Rape
The minister of a church near the scene of an alleged gang-rape in Epsom has strongly condemned a protest that she described as intimidating. The Rev Catherine Hutton of Epsom Methodist church spoke out after hundreds of people gathered in the Surrey town to demand information from police about the suspects involved in the reported assault.
Details of the Alleged Incident and Community Response
According to Surrey police, a woman in her 20s is believed to have been assaulted outside Epsom Methodist church after leaving Labyrinth nightclub between 2am and 4am on Saturday. Officers are actively working to locate the suspects but have stated they do not have sufficient information to release to the public at this time. They have appealed for witnesses and urged against speculation.
In response to the alleged attack, a protest was held on Wednesday evening in Epsom town centre, where demonstrators called for more details about the suspects. The event saw dozens of police officers in helmets and shields, with reports of objects being thrown, though no arrests were made. Catherine Hutton, speaking outside the church, expressed that the community was shocked and appalled by the news.
Hope for Epsom Event and Minister's Statement
On Thursday afternoon, the church organized a Hope for Epsom event, inviting community members, leaders, police officers, and clergy to come together in love and grace. The service included a specially commissioned song of hope and an opportunity for attendees to lay stones at the front of the church as a symbol of solidarity.
Hutton recounted her experience on Wednesday, saying, I was getting off the train at 5 o'clock and the protest was starting to gather. It was intimidating. She emphasized, Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that, highlighting the purpose of the community gathering to stand united and affirm their goodness.
Protest Footage and Resident Perspectives
Footage from social media showed a large crowd of protesters blocking roads in the town centre on Wednesday evening, causing disruption to motorists before dispersing around 8pm. Mark Laxton, an Epsom resident who participated, stated, All people want is answers because no one is safe any more. He estimated 200 to 300 people were present, organized online, and expressed frustration over perceived lack of police presence on streets.
Police Response and Appeals for Information
Ch Supt Mark Chapman of Surrey police commented, We respect the right to lawful protest and will facilitate this wherever possible where it is safe to do so. However, criminal offences and public disorder will not be tolerated, and we will always take robust action against anyone who commits a criminal offence.
Authorities continue to appeal for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage from the area during the incident to contact Surrey police, quoting reference number PR/45260041426. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555111 or using their online form.
