Undercover officers on patrol in Devon and Cornwall to tackle violence against women and girls
It's part of Project Vigilant - a perpetrator-focused policing initiative
Last updated 29th Dec 2023
Devon and Cornwall Police are carrying out more night-time patrols to tackle violence against women and girls.
With the festive season in full swing, the force has issued advice to everyone who is out and about to do what they can to keep themselves and everyone else safe.
Devon and Cornwall Police say they will also be actively keeping an eye out for sexually aggressive behaviour.
It is part of Project Vigilant, an initiative that uses a blend of uniformed and non-uniformed officers in a bid to spot predatory behaviour and challenge it immediately, intervening in situations before they escalate to an offence.
Detective Superintendent Nicky Seager, Force Lead on violence against women and girls said: "Across the force area you may see an increased police presence on our streets in the evenings. This will include deployments of Project Vigilant in areas where people congregate to eat, drink and be merry.
“Project Vigilant is a perpetrator-focused, proactive policing initiative that’s designed to tackle violence, abuse and intimidation against women and girls in what we call the night-time economy."
Developed in 2019 by Thames Valley Police, this tactic was adopted by Devon and Cornwall police in June this year.
Detective Superintendent Seager adds: "When you are out and about this New Year, enjoy yourself. Plan how you’re getting home and never accept a lift from someone you don’t know.
"Familiarise yourself with the safe places, help points and other safety schemes in our towns and cities which have been created by our local authorities or supported by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner.
"Stick together with your friends and don’t be worried about asking for help from venue staff, police or partner agency workers who are out in the streets such as Street Pastors and Taxi Marshals.
"If you see someone being harassed or abused, step in if it’s safe to do so. And if you or anyone is in immediate danger, don’t hesitate to call 999."
Devon and Cornwall Police say anyone who feels they are in a bad situation and are in a venue which offers the Ask For Angela service should approach staff and do just that, ask for Angela. Staff will help you get out of that situation, and will help you to exit the premises or call you a taxi discreetly and without fuss. If you’re not sure that Ask For Angela is available, talk to staff or security if you’re not in a safe situation.
The Home Office Enough campaign also offers advice on how everyone can step in and intervene, if it’s safe to do so, if they see someone being harassed or abused.
Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez said: "There are people who are preying on woman in the night-time economy and those undercover officers are there to keep an eye out.
"Devon and Cornwall is one of the safest places to go out and have a good time, but always be on the lookout. Stay with your friends and get home safely."