Youth crime commissioner resigns after Twitter row

BRITAIN’S first youth crime commissioner said she was “truly sorry for any offence” caused as she stood down from her role following a row over messages she wrote on Twitter.

Paris Brown, 17, from Kent, was only appointed to the £15,000-a-year post last week.

Speaking at a press conference yesterday Miss Brown said she had “taken the decision to decline the offer of the position” as she felt recent media attention would affect her ability to carry out the job.

She added: “I am truly sorry. As I made clear over the weekend, I accept that I have made comments on social networking sites which have offended many people. I strongly reiterate that I am not racist or homophobic. I have fallen into the trap of behaving with bravado on social networking sites.”

Kent Police is investigating the allegedly violent, anti-gay and racist social media messages written by Miss Brown between the ages of 14 and 16. The force said complaints have been made and that it was making inquiries before deciding whether any ­offences had been committed.

Miss Brown has since deleted the tweets. She will not receive any payment as she was not due to begin work until July.

The role of youth commissioner for Kent will be advertised again in the summer.