A Rye man has been convicted of broadcasting racist messages over the CB and amateur radio frequencies, police confirmed today (Wednesday, February 2).

John Saxby, 61, of Rye Harbour Road, was convicted of a charge of committing racially aggravated harassment without violence when he appeared at Hastings Magistrates Court on Wednesday, January 19.

The CB and amateur radio frequencies are most commonly used on ships, lorries and people engaging in two-way radio conversations.

The court heard between March and June 2021, Saxby made a number of racial remarks over the radio networks.

Police said one victim, in particular, was targeted by Saxby who made racial comments and remarks about his disabilities over the course of several months.

PC Ryan Welby, of Hastings CID, said: “Racism has no place in our society. This conviction shows the public that even those who choose to abuse others from behind closed doors will be discovered.

“We will always treat such reports seriously and act on the evidence presented.”

Media Report - https://www.hastingsobserver.co.uk/news/crime/rye-man-convicted-for-making-racial-remarks-over-amateur-radio-networks-3551480