The teenager was held for a mental health evaluation ahead of his next court appearance.
Saturday, July 13, 2024 8:56 PM, United Kingdom
A 17-year-old boy has been charged after an attack at a Sikh place of worship in Kent.
Police were called to the Sri Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara in Gravesend on Thursday evening to reports of disturbances inside the premises and two women attacked outside.
While two women were treated for cuts and bruises, no one was seriously injured and officers recovered a bladed weapon.
A 17-year-old boy, who cannot be identified due to his age, was arrested at the scene.
On Saturday, he was charged with assault causing bodily harm, use or threat of unlawful violence, threats to kill, threatening a person with a bladed weapon and possession of a sharp object in a public place.
The teenager later appeared at Maidstone Crown Court, where he was further charged with attempted grievous bodily harm.
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He was released on bail but was immediately detained by officers for a mental health assessment and will appear again at Medway Youth Court on Thursday.
Kent Police Chief Superintendent Angie Chapman said: “This is an isolated incident and our initial enquiries suggest it is not terrorism-related.
“We view this as a religious escalation. It was upsetting to the local population and our officers will remain on patrol in the area to reassure and engage with the community.
“I would like to thank the local community for their continued support and assistance as this investigation continues.”
