Specialist police patrols are out on-the-beat in Cumbria during the Christmas season - to offer reassurance and catch offenders in busy nightlife areas.
More high-visibility officers are out at peak times as part of the work that usually goes on ahead of Christmas to protect the public during a busy time of the year for parties and nights out.
And while officers work to protect everyone, one of the key factors will be preventing violence against women and girls (VAWG), which is a force priority.
As a result there will be dedicated Operation Vigilant patrols.
These are a blend of uniform officers and plain clothed officers who identify those displaying predatory or unacceptable behaviour in the night-time economy, focussing on hot spots where violence against women and girls might take place.
Its aim is to proactively target perpetrators of offences.
T/Detective Chief Inspector Mike Taylor is the force operational lead on VAWG.
He said: “Women and girls should not have to avoid certain areas or change their own behaviour, through fear of being abused or harassed. We are targeting the perpetrators.
“Our general policing operation around Christmas has an extra focus on this so we can address these concerns, provide reassurance and catch offenders.
“Operation Vigilant includes high visibility officers and officers in plain clothes.
“The high visibility officers are there to offer reassurance and those in plain clothes will aim to identify those displaying predatory behaviour or inappropriate behaviour.
“Our officers will be out in busy nightlife areas at key times to offer a visible presence and act as a deterrent against offences such as violence and harassment.”
In the run up to Christmas the force has also been giving out advice on social media on other types of crimes which are often linked to nights out or times when people drink more alcohol.
This will include domestic abuse – which can rise at this time of the year – and spiking.
Domestic abuse
T/DCI Taylor said: “Domestic abuse and protecting vulnerable people are priorities for us all-year-round.
“Nobody should ever have to suffer domestic abuse – and if you’re scared, there is help out there.
“Tackling these awful crimes and safeguarding vulnerable people is a key priority for us.
“We take reports seriously and we treat all cases with sensitivity.
“If you are suffering, please get in touch. We are here to help and support you.
“Even if right now you only have questions, I would urge you to contact us.”
Police are also keen to stress the range of support services available.
T/DCI Taylor added: “Getting the right support can empower someone to take their next positive step forward.
“There is a whole wealth of support services available in Cumbria. As the police, we can help you access these support services.”
Spiking
Spiking is giving someone alcohol or drugs without them knowing or agreeing. For example, in their drink.
T/DCI Taylor said: “Spiking is an abhorrent crime and can have a significant, traumatic impact on victims.
“Most cases of spiking don’t lead to sexual assault or theft.
“But spiking can cause severe distress, emotional harm and anxiety. It can take a long time to recover from someone spiking you.
T/DCI Taylor said the earlier people report offences such as this the better.
This is because, if the spiking was carried out with a drug, some drugs can leave the body within hours, so testing is better done sooner than later.
He added: “Our main concern is to make sure the victim gets the support they need. Once the victim is well enough, we are here to support and investigate.
”One of the main points we would make to victims is: You are never to blame and will be believed. This is never the fault of the victim.
“Sometimes people are afraid to speak to the police, perhaps thinking no one will believe them.
“You can tell us about spiking even if you don't want to go through with forensic testing and an investigation.
“No matter who you are, how long ago the spiking happened or what took place, our prime concern is to give you the support you need.”
Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, David Allen, said: “Everyone has the right to feel safe when they are on a night out.
"We know that having a visible police presence brings comfort to those out enjoying themselves and that it deters criminals from committing offences.
“The police are out on our streets every single day of the year, but the festive period is one of our busiest times in the county.
"This is why it’s so important that police are on our streets, visible and are there to help when they are most needed.
“VAWG is a big priority for the Constabulary, so I’m pleased to see the continuous work to combat this.
"Anyone can be the victim of a crime, and unfortunately women and girls are disproportionally affected by certain crime types, such as domestic abuse, so it’s important that we combat this through education, prevention and prosecution.
“Spiking is a harmful act; it is a shameful and insidious act carried out by cowards and because of the harm and violation that it can cause, is it is vital that perpetrators face the full extent of the law for their cowardly crimes.
“If you do need help or spot something suspicious, please report it to the police on 101, or 999 in an emergency. By reporting it, the police can help and if a trend arises in a certain area, we know where to put our resources.
“I hope the public feel reassured seeing officers on their streets and that they enjoy their celebrations over the festive period.”
How do you report any of these offences to police?
If you have been the victim of any of these offences, or are concerned for someone who is, you can report this by calling 101.
Always dial 999 in an emergency.
You can get more advice about domestic abuse here: Advice about domestic abuse | Cumbria Police
You can get more advice on spiking here: What is spiking? | Cumbria Police
You can also report spiking here: How to report spiking to the police | Cumbria Police
How do I access a range of support services?
You can access support services regardless of whether you have reported a crime to the police.
To access support services independently, contact Victim Support 24/7 on 0808 1689 111 – or go to: cumbria-pcc.gov.uk/victim-service/
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