Police were forced to clarify that "being offensive" is not a crime after circulating an ill-advised poster intending to raise awareness of hate crime.
The poster, which was shared over the weekend on social media and on billboards attached to a van in Wirral, caused an immediate backlash.
The poster states "being offensive is an offence" and adds " Merseyside Police stands with and supports the LGBTQI+ community, we will not tolerate Hate Crime on any level."
However the statement is not legally accurate and offensive speech is not a criminal offence.
In response to online criticism, Superintendent Martin Earl issued a statement clarifying that being offensive is not, in fact, an offence.
He said: “A message on an ad-van and on social media this weekend by the local policing team on the Wirral to encourage people to report hate crime, although well intentioned, was incorrect and we apologise for any confusion this may have caused
“Our hate crime coordinators draw on a wealth of experience and expertise to provide effective and, above all, sensitive and appropriate support for victims.”
Hate crime is not a specific criminal offence, but refers to when crimes such as assault or threatening behaviour are motivated by hostility to race, religion, sexual orientation or transgender identity.
If this is proven in court the offender may be hit with a tougher sentence.
The poster has attracted a huge amount of criticism on social media.
Well known activist and political commentator Femi Oluwole tweeted: "Police forces really need to seek political advice before they make moves like this.
"You're hurting the very causes you're trying to support."
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Novelist Simon Edge posted: "This is a catastrophe. I'm gay and I spent a chunk of my childhood living in Bromborough.
"You've harmed gay people with this crap because it looks like we're demanding special treatment. It's a horrible look. Just get back to proper policing."
Twitter user @LivingDroll said: "The fact that not ONE copper involved in this sign went 'you know, I’m not sure that actually IS the law' is SHOCKING! It’s your JOB to know what is and what is not an offence. If you don’t know, how are the public supposed to?"
