Two in court following hate crime incident in Bristol

Two people have been charged following an investigation into the assault of two men in a racial hate crime incident in Bristol last year.  

Joshua James, aged 34 of Roy King Garddens, Warmley, and Jake Hutchings, aged 28 of Griffin Road, Clevedon, have both been charged with wounding with intent, racially aggravated assault by causing actual bodily harm and assault by causing actual bodily harm. 

James was additionally charged with possessing an offensive weapon in a public place. 

The charges follow an incident which occurred in Sarah Street, Bristol, at around 7.35pm on Monday 22 September. 

The two victims had been trying to move their car when they were racially abused and assaulted. 

The hate crime incident saw one of the men sustain significant injuries for which he is still receiving treatment. The second victim was also injured in the incident, sustaining cuts and bruises. 

Hutchings appeared at Bristol Magistrates’ Court yesterday (Wednesday 12 August) and was bailed. 

He will next appear at Bristol Crown Court on Wednesday 16 September. 

James will appear at the same court today and has been remanded into custody ahead of their hearing. 

Insp Serena Serjeant, who has been regularly liaising with the community, said: “This has been a complex investigation spanning almost a year, and I hope today’s news about these charges demonstrates our commitment to pursuing all lines of enquiry in cases of serious violence and hate crime.  

“The nature of this incident was particularly distressing, and I want to acknowledge the profound impact it has had on both victims and the wider community. No one should ever have to experience such harm, and we continue to offer our full support to them and to work closely with partners and interested parties to ensure they are kept fully informed as this case develops.” 

Stand Against Racism and Inequality (SARI) continue to support the victims of this incident and we are updating SARI on our investigation as it develops.

During this investigation, we are aware of some concerns which were raised surrounding the initial police response. A complaint was received and we have made a referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) to consider whether they wanted to take this complaint on independently.  

The IOPC felt this was suitable for local investigation. Our Professional Standards Department have launched the investigation, but this is on hold pending the conclusion of the criminal proceedings which are now underway.