Man arrested in probe into hurtful comments made on social media

A man was arrested in Dorchester by police investigating comments made on social media.

Dorchester Police launched an investigation into comments that were made and arrested a man on Sunday, May 5 on suspicion of malicious communications.

He has since been bailed while enquiries continue.

The nature of the comments has not been disclosed.

However the law defines malicious communications as someone sending a letter or any other form of communication that is indecent or grossly offensive, threatening, or contains information which is false or believed to be false. The purpose for sending it is to cause distress or anxiety to the person it is sent to.

A spokesperson from Dorchester Police said: "During yesterday’s shift, PC Brotherton from the Neighbourhood Policing Team arrested a local male on suspicion of malicious communications.

"Following an investigation of social media comments a male's identity was established.

"A man was interviewed and has been released from custody on conditional bail. The case will now be sent to the Crown Prosecution Service for a charging decision due to the nature of the offence.

"Words alone can have a great impact on people and communities. Please remember to be kind to each other, whether that be in person or online."