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Monday, 30 September, 2002, 20:20 GMT 21:20 UK

Man attacked over paedophile rumours

Police have issued a warning after the home of a pensioner, who was wrongly thought to be a paedophile, was firebombed.

The 75-year-old man from Newark has now been forced to move house.

He moved out after a flammable liquid was thrown at his bungalow.

Police said rumours had been circulating that the man, whose home overlooked a school playground, was a convicted paedophile.

Leaving home

Detectives are now urging people to come forward who know about the attack, which happened on the evening of 19 September.

They have warned against people taking the law into their own hands.

Nottinghamshire Police are treating the firebombing as arson with intent to endanger life - a crime that carries a life sentence.

Inspector Jerry Butler said: "A man has been subjected to an awful attack.

"He has had to leave his home and he is very distressed.

"He could have lost his life, he could certainly have been injured."


Related to this story:
Chasing the bogeymen (23 Aug 02 | England) 'Name these paedophiles' say residents (22 Aug 02 | England) Is it safe to play? (08 Aug 02 | UK) 'Vigilante' killers jailed for life (22 Mar 02 | England)


Internet links: Nottinghamshire Police
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