Summary
A gang allegedly blackmailed men through the gay dating app Grindr, but police reportedly did not investigate properly, raising concerns of bias. At least one victim died by suicide after being targeted. Authorities are re-examining their investigation methods due to claims of possible discrimination.
Key Facts
- Police are being accused of making biased assumptions in cases of alleged blackmail involving the gay dating app Grindr.
- The investigation covers at least five blackmail cases, with four connected to the same gang.
- A man died by suicide shortly after a group demanded his car, which is linked to the blackmail cases.
- The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) advised Hertfordshire Police to look into possible bias in their investigation.
- Hertfordshire Police is working to improve relations with LGBTQ+ communities.
- The gang involved reportedly left a threatening note at one victim's home.
- Police missed evidence opportunities, including not collecting fingerprints or DNA at the scene.
- No arrests have been made, although police had prior knowledge of the suspects' phone number.
