Project Vigilant targets potential sex, spiking and theft offenders

Following its initial year in operation in the North East, Project Vigilant will continue with further deployments planned during 2026 to build on the good work already carried out in the partnership scheme.

The initiative is aimed at targeting perpetrator behaviours, which are often displayed before a sexual offence, or those of spiking and theft takes place.

It is a joint effort involving the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU), Cleveland, Durham and Northumbria police forces and all three regional Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs).

Their combined aim is to ensure a safer environment for members of the public enjoying a night out.

Proactive policing in the night-time economy to target potential perpetrators of sexual, spiking or theft offences (Image: North Yorkshire Police)

Project Vigilant began in Thames Valley in 2019, and has spread nationwide, with its introduction in North Yorkshire in 2023, and in the three North East force areas, in December 2024.

Specially trained plain-clothed officers are deployed in and about night-scene venues, identifying individuals displaying predatory behaviour.

Plain-clothes officers helping to spot potential perpetrators of sexual, spiking or theft offences in the night-time economy (Image: North Yorkshire Police)

These include harassment, loitering without reason and stalking behaviour.

They are stopped by police, inquiries are carried out, dispersal orders given or, where necessary, arrests are made.

Both uniformed and plain-clothed officers patrol areas where busy night-time venues thrive looking for potential offence perpetrators (Image: North Yorkshire Police)

A total of 42-per cent 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 stopped and arrested 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.

Detective Chief Inspector Max Leonard, of NEROCU, 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 PCC 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.”

His Durham counterpart, 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.”

Northumbria PCC, 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.

Read next … more crime stories from The Northern Echo, by clicking here

“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.”

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

If anyone has information or concerns about someone’s behaviour they can report it to police or via the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on (0800) 555111.