Project Vigilant: A regional commitment to tackling violence against women and girls

Project Vigilant has seen some fantastic successes in its initial year in the North East and our partnership work won’t end there with further deployments planned during 2026 to build on the good work already carried out.

The initiative 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.

During activity, specially trained plain-clothed 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.

A total of 42% of the individuals identified and stopped by officers during the most recent deployment had previous links to offences of violence against women and girls - including domestic abuse or sexual offending.

One man was stopped and arrested who was in breach of his Sexual Harm Prevention Order and another man was found to have quantities of controlled drugs on him including two capped needles.

DCI Max Leonard, from the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit, said: “We know women are taught from a young age to stay extra vigilant on a night out, but that responsibility shouldn’t be on them.

“We want to reassure all members of the public that these 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.

“Our efforts alongside our partners will not slow down, and I want to state clearly to the public that we remain committed to support the regional mission to tackle this issue. We also urge anyone with any concerns about someone’s behaviour to report it to police.”

Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner Matt Storey said: “It is extremely important that women and girls feel they can socialise in the evening and fully take part in the night time economy without fear of abuse or harassment.

“Operation Vigilant is just one of the measures, which PCCs and forces throughout the North East, are taking to make sure women are protected and safe from harm.”

County Durham and Darlington Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen said: “These results prove the value in tackling predatory behaviour early. Undoubtedly, the swift actions of officers have prevented harm and protected women or girls becoming victims of appalling offences – the emotional impact of which could last a lifetime.

“This operation sends a powerful message to our communities: that responsibility for sexual violence, stalking and harassment lies entirely with the perpetrator. Women have a right to enjoy our night-time economy safety and without fear. Anyone presenting a threat will continue to be actively targeted and held justly accountable for their actions.”

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth: “This week it’s Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week and I think it’s really important to be highlighting proactive policing efforts like Project Vigilant which involves officers working hard behind the scenes to help keep people safe on a night out.

“This activity sends a clear message that our police forces are working together, through the NEROCU, and are doing so much more than responding to crimes and supporting the vulnerable; they’re proactively looking out for those who could cause harm. The fact that 42% of those stopped have history for VAWG related offending shows our officers are recognising key behaviours and are potentially stopping crime in its tracks. The Project is achieving some great results and I will continue to monitor its impact.”

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.