Project Vigilant re-launches

Project Vigilant is aimed at targeting perpetrator behaviours, which are often displayed before a sexual offence, spiking or theft takes place.

The initiative is a joint effort by the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU), Cleveland Police, Durham Constabulary, Northumbria Police and all three North East Police and Crime Commissioners, who all work to ensure a safer environment for members of the public enjoying a night out.

It was first launched in the North East in December last year and has already seen numerous targeted deployments across Newcastle, Durham and Middlesborough.

During activity, specially trained officers are deployed during the Night Time Economy and identify individuals who may be displaying predatory behaviour such as harassment, loitering without reason and stalking behaviour. Those individuals are stopped by police, enquiries are carried out, dispersal orders given or where necessary arrests are made.

The targeted police operations will continue to be carried out across the North East with the aim of proactively preventing violence and sexual offences against women and girls and ensuring a safer environment for all.

Detective Chief Inspector Paul Hallowell, from NEROCU, has reassured the public Project Vigilant will continue to disrupt offending against women and girls.

DCI Hallowell said: “It is important to us that members of the public feel they can have a safe and fun night out in the North East without the fear of assault, violence, or theft. National figures show that violence against women and girls is something that requires robust action and already in a year we have seen fantastic results from this initiative – and we’re not slowing down.

“Predatory behaviour is never acceptable, and we remain committed alongside our partners to continue our work to tackle this issue. We also urge anyone with any concerns about someone’s behaviour to report it to police.”

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth said: “During the 16 days of action campaign to prevent and end violence against women and girls, I think it’s really important to be highlighting proactive policing efforts like Op Vigilant. People don’t necessarily know this work is happening, yet it forms part of a raft of measures we have in place to keep people safe on a night out.

“This activity sends a clear message that our police are doing so much more than responding to crimes and supporting the vulnerable; we have officers whose mission is to proactively target those who cause harm and prevent crime.

“I hope hearing about this operation reassures people about the work in place to catch predatory behaviours before they escalate. The results show the positive impact this is having towards delivering safer streets in our night-time economies across the region, and I will continue to monitor progress in this area.”

Durham Police and Crime Commissioner, Joy Allen said: “Protecting women and girls from sexual harassment and violence and ensuring they feel safe in our public spaces, including our transport systems and within the night-time economy, are top priorities for me as they featured highly in my consultation with the public. I have been clear in my Police, Crime and Justice Plan that I will tackle all forms of violence against women and girls, from spiking and stalking to rape and murder.

“Operation Vigilant has become a vital tool in our work to tackle VAWG, challenging predatory behaviour early, before it escalates, to prevent serious and traumatic crimes that can take victims a lifetime to recover and heal from.

“Women and girls should be able to enjoy a night out safely, without fear or risk. By taking a proactive and intelligence-led approach, putting trained officers in the right place at the right time, we not only safeguard potential victims but build confidence and trust in the police which reinforces feelings of safety."

Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner, Matt Storey said: “Our research shows that more than 81% of women surveyed felt unsafe in Cleveland’s town centres after dark. Research like this proves how important work like Project Vigilant is in our communities to protect women and girls from potential predators.”

Anyone who has been the victim of a sexual assault, whether recently or in the past, is encouraged to contact their local police force.

If you have information or concerns about someone’s behaviour you can report it to police or via the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.