Durham Police are warning the public not to identify any victims of sexual offence, particularity, in relation to the trial of Adam Johnson.
They are reminding members of the public that any person who is a victim of sexual assault has a legal right to lifetime anonymity.
The force say that identifying a victim on social media is an offence and that anyone doing so will face consequences from the police.
Adam Johnson trial – a reminder of legal guidance:
Durham Constabulary has reiterated that anyone who identifies someone, who may or may not be a victim of a sexual offence, is committing a criminal act.
Victims of sexual assault are guaranteed the legal right to lifetime anonymity, and publishing any details, including on social media, which may lead to their identification is contrary to the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act 1992.
Durham Constabulary wishes to remind social media users, and anyone else who breaks the law, that they will be dealt with robustly.