Several arrests made during operation in Exeter
It was part of Devon and Cornwall Police’s commitment to tackle violence against women and girls, as well as anti-social behaviour
Last updated 13th Feb 2023
Police in Exeter made several arrests over the weekend following a pro-active operation in Exeter City Centre.
As part of Devon and Cornwall Police’s commitment to tackle violence against women and girls, and to tackle violence and anti-social behaviour, local officers have been carrying out targeted patrols across the city.
On Friday (10 February), teams headed out to the city’s nightspots in a drive to safeguard the night-time economy community. Both plainclothes and uniformed officers took part in the activity, which is part of a national scheme called Project Vigilant, in a bid to reduce sexual violence and predatory behaviour.
Commander for North, East, and West Devon, Chief Superintendent Dan Evans said: “The purpose of this action is not only to disrupt predatory behaviour, but to reassure and safeguard the public, particularly women and girls, and provide that reassurance that my officers are on patrol and are approachable if needed.
“High visibility patrols have also been increased around areas where we have received reports of anti-social behaviour and violence.
“We want to make Exeter a place where people can live their lives free from the fear of violence and intimidation. We don’t feel that this is an unrealistic request, and we will endeavour to do what we can so that people feel safe and confident to be out.”
Officers carried out four arrests on Friday night, including drink driving, drunk and disorderly, assaulting a police officer, criminal damage, and causing harassment, alarm, and distress. They also issued two men with public spaces protection orders.
On Saturday night, officers made four arrests, two for drunk and disorderly, and two for assault (one of which directly related to violence against women).
Chief Superintendent Dan Evans continued: “My team routinely carry out these operations across the city and work extremely closely with Exeter City Council CCTV operators who, through Safer Streets funding, have updated numerous cameras dotted around the city meaning predatory behaviour is being picked up by these operators. The operators keep in contact with both police and door-staff, directing action as required. This really is partnership working at its best.
“My teams were not only inside licenced premises but were also outside of them in the city’s nightspots such as Gandy Street and Queen’s Street on the lookout to identify individuals involved in predatory behaviour, and individuals involved in violence and anti-social behaviour.
"People should be able to go out at night without the feeling unsafe. We hope that our presence assists in making people safer and serves as a warning to potential predators that intimidation will not be tolerated.
“Exeter remains a safe place to live and visit and it is my priority to root out any violence and intimidation.”