In a brazen daylight assault, the constituency office of Labour MP Sharon Hodgson has been deliberately vandalised, leaving local residents and political colleagues in a state of shock.
The disturbing incident occurred in broad daylight in Washington, where the MP's office windows were deliberately smashed, causing significant damage to the property.
Police Investigation Underway
Northumbria Police have confirmed they are treating the incident as criminal damage and have launched a full investigation. Authorities are currently examining CCTV footage from the area and appealing to local witnesses who might have seen suspicious activity around the time of the attack.
A police spokesperson stated: "We can confirm we are investigating a report of criminal damage at a property on Victoria Road in Washington. Enquiries are ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact police."
MP's Response to the Attack
Sharon Hodgson, who has served as MP for Washington and Sunderland West since 2005, expressed her distress at the targeted attack on her constituency office. The premises serve as a vital hub for her work supporting local residents with various issues and casework.
In a statement, the MP emphasised that while she respects the right to peaceful protest, this act of criminal damage represents an unacceptable attack on democratic institutions and the vital work carried out by elected representatives.
Community Support and Condemnation
The attack has been widely condemned by political figures across party lines, with many describing it as an assault on democracy itself. Local residents have also expressed their outrage and support for the MP, who has been a prominent figure in the community for nearly two decades.
This incident raises serious concerns about the safety and security of elected representatives and their staff, particularly in constituency offices that remain accessible to the public.
The investigation continues as authorities work to identify those responsible for this alarming act of vandalism against a serving Member of Parliament.
