Police Conclude Investigation into Bob Vylan’s IDF Chants at Glastonbury
The inquiry into the rap duo Bob Vylan’s chants at the Glastonbury festival has been closed by law enforcement, as there is “insufficient” evidence that would provide a credible chance of conviction, according to police statements. Bobby Vylan, whose birth name is Pascal Robinson-Foster, led the audience at the festival’s West Holts stage in chants of “death, death to the IDF,” referring to the Israel Defense Forces, during their performance in June. Soon after, Avon and Somerset police announced they had commenced a criminal investigation, appointing a senior detective to oversee the matter.
Last month, a man in his mid-30s was questioned under caution regarding the remarks made during the performance, but he was not formally arrested. The police did not identify the individual involved and he was notified of the case’s outcome on Tuesday. In a statement, Avon and Somerset police remarked: “No further action will be pursued as there is insufficient evidence for a realistic prospect of conviction.” The statement continued: “The remarks made on Saturday 28 June sparked considerable outrage, demonstrating that words can have real-world implications. We believe it was necessary for this matter to be thoroughly investigated, with every potential criminal offense carefully evaluated, and we sought comprehensive advice to ensure an informed conclusion was reached.”
The force communicated the findings of its preliminary investigations to the Crown Prosecution Service in July and acquired legal advice about several potential offenses. A spokesperson for the CPS commented: “We acknowledge the strong public sentiment regarding the remarks made during Bob Vylan’s set at the Glastonbury festival in June, especially among the Jewish community. We provided early investigative counsel to Avon and Somerset police on the evidence needed to satisfy the legal criteria for charges, but we have not been requested to make a charging decision in this matter.” Various offenses were taken into account, each with its own evidential standards, but Avon and Somerset police have determined that there is inadequate evidence for any realistic prospect of conviction and will not pursue further action.
Last month, the Metropolitan police announced they would also terminate their separate investigation into Bob Vylan’s performance in May at Alexandra Palace in north London, following guidance from the CPS. In September, the BBC partially upheld complaints related to its choice to stream the punk duo’s performance at Glastonbury.
Published: 2025-12-23 18:07:00
source: www.theguardian.com
