Gillingham, Kent — May 12, 2025
Kent Police have issued a formal apology to 71-year-old retired special constable Julian Foulkes following his arrest in November 2023 over a social media post concerning pro-Palestinian marches. The force acknowledged that the caution issued to Mr. Foulkes was inappropriate and has since expunged it from his record.
Incident Overview
Mr. Foulkes, who served with Kent Police for a decade, was arrested after responding to a social media post that criticized then-Home Secretary Suella Braverman’s stance on pro-Palestinian demonstrations. In his reply, Mr. Foulkes commented: “One step away from storming Heathrow looking for Jewish arrivals…” He contends that his remark was a critique of antisemitism, not an endorsement.
Following the post, six officers arrived at Mr. Foulkes’ Gillingham residence, where he was handcuffed, and his home was searched. Officers expressed concerns over the contents of his bookshelf, which included works by conservative author Douglas Murray and issues of The Spectator. Additionally, a shopping list belonging to his wife, a hairdresser, which included items like bleach and tin foil, was noted during the search.
Mr. Foulkes was detained for eight hours and questioned regarding a potential charge of malicious communications. He accepted an unconditional caution, fearing that prolonged legal proceedings might hinder his ability to visit his daughter in Australia.
Police Response and Apology
In a recent statement, Kent Police admitted that the caution was “not appropriate in the circumstances” and have removed it from Mr. Foulkes’ record. The force stated: “Kent Police apologises to Mr. Foulkes for the distress caused and how the report was investigated. We have expunged the caution from his record and are pleased to facilitate this correction.”
Matthew Scott, Kent’s Police and Crime Commissioner, criticized the handling of the situation, describing Mr. Foulkes’ ordeal as “unacceptable.” He added, “I am taking this matter … am raising these concerns with Kent … Chief Constable.”
Public and Political Reaction
The incident has sparked a broader debate on free speech and police overreach. Mr. Foulkes remarked, “Free speech is clearly under … … the public needs to see what’s … and be shocked.”
He has accepted support from the Free Speech Union ( … ), led by Toby Young, to fund a legal challenge against Kent Police for wrongful arrest and detention. Mr. Foulkes expressed gratitude for the support, urging others concerned about free speech to join the FSU.
Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp condemned the arrest, stating, “Arresting a … -year-old man and holding him for hours … .” Labour MP Barry Gardiner also questioned the training of the officers involved, emphasizing the need for proper guidance to prevent similar incidents.
Broader Context
This case adds to a series of recent events where police actions regarding social media posts have come under scrutiny. In November 2024, Essex Police visited journalist Allison Pearson over a deleted tweet, and in January, Hertfordshire Police arrested a couple for comments made in a school WhatsApp group.
The Home Office commented on the incident, noting that it occurred under the previous government. … current Home Secretary emphasized the importance of police focusing on core priorities, including neighborhood policing and reducing antisocial behavior.
As discussions around free speech and police conduct continue, Mr. Foulkes’ case serves as a focal point in the ongoing debate over the balance between public safety and individual rights.
