Essex Police have launched an investigation after a video shared by a pro-Palestine activist appeared to show a man repeatedly spitting on the statue of murdered Southend MP Sir David Amess.
The footage, circulated widely on social media on Wednesday (21 October), sparked outrage across Southend, with councillors, politicians and members of the public condemning the apparent act at the memorial on Chalkwell Esplanade.
The video emerged just days after the fifth anniversary of Sir David’s murder.
The footage was shared on TikTok by a Westcliff man using the online name ‘Angry Jesus’. He is known for provocative pro-Palestine content, including street confrontations and videos featuring a man dressed as Jesus carrying a Palestinian flag.
The latest video appears to mock tributes left at Sir David’s statue, which overlooks the Thames Estuary in his former constituency.
Essex Police confirm investigation
Chief Inspector David Browning, Southend district commander, confirmed on Thursday (22 October) that officers had launched an investigation following a report received the previous day.
He said: “We’ve assessed a report made to us yesterday, Wednesday, October 21, which relates to a video posted on social media in Southend.
“An investigation was launched last night. This morning, we’re pursuing a number of targeted lines of enquiry.
“We recognise the concern and upset that the content of this video may cause within the community.”
Priti Patel condemns ‘sickening and disgusting act’
Former Home Secretary Dame Priti Patel was among those to condemn the footage.
She said: “This is a sickening and disgusting act committed by a vile individual.
“Sir David was respectful, kind and a powerful advocate for free speech and expression. He always debated political differences with dignity.
“To disrespect his life and legacy in this way is dreadful.”
Southend councillors also expressed anger at the incident.
Councillor Matt Dent said: “Whatever your views of his politics, spitting on the statue of Sir David Amess is an assault on the city of Southend, and on common decency. I hope Essex Police will throw the book at this individual.”
Southend City Council leader Councillor Daniel Cowan added: “This individual is behaving vilely and that behaviour is not welcome in our city.”
Councillor Martin Berry also condemned the footage, while paying tribute to Sir David’s approach to politics and his work for local residents.
He said: “This depicts a truly horrible act and I hope the police catch up with the person responsible. An irony here is that this ‘Angry Jesus’ person is doing things the real Jesus never would.
“I often disagreed with Sir David Amess (although I had more run-ins with Sir James Duddridge), but always found Sir David personable and able to argue his points sensibly and never with abuse or ill-feeling.
“Whatever our political disagreements, he was an excellent constituency MP who always listened to, and took up, individual people’s issues.”
Pro-Palestine supporters also criticise footage
The video has also drawn criticism from people who support the Palestinian cause, with some making clear that the man’s apparent actions do not represent their views.
Megan Sophia Brooks said: “I love what this guy supports, but this was way out of hand. I don’t condone this behaviour. Sir David was a great guy and was well loved in the community. There is no way this is acceptable.”
Statue honours Sir David’s legacy in Southend
Sir David Amess was murdered on 15 October 2021 while holding a constituency surgery at Belfairs Methodist Church in Leigh-on-Sea.
The Conservative MP, who represented Southend West, was stabbed to death by Islamist extremist Ali Harbi Ali, who was subsequently convicted of his murder.
Sir David had served the area for decades and was a passionate campaigner for Southend to be granted city status, an ambition realised following his death.
His life-size statue, created by sculptor Andrew Lilley, was unveiled on Chalkwell Esplanade in April 2024 as a permanent tribute to his public service and commitment to the city.
The memorial stands overlooking the Thames Estuary, close to the communities Sir David represented throughout his political career.
Essex Police’s investigation into the video remains ongoing.