Sexual Assaults almost halved

Source

Streets in West Yorkshire’s towns and city centres have continued to get safer for late night revellers this summer following the end of a major campaign.

Police and partners have said they are very pleased that levels of sexual offences in the towns and cities have remained low and dropped by 48% during the operation Northdale campaign.

Thirteen sex offences were reported in the county between July 14 and August 31st compared to 25 in the previous year during the campaign period in which police and volunteers hit the streets to help those thought to be at risk.

Partners including the voluntary Street Angels, NHS and Probation service all took part in the operation which took place across the force and has now become an annual safety event.
 

It saw them meet and greet revellers at key areas within city centres where they advised them to have fun, know their limits, stay with friends and finally guided them to safe transport home.
 

Anti-drink spiking devices, sweets and other products carrying safety messages were also handed out.

Meanwhile, a total of 450 blue tooth messages were also sent and picked up by party goers advising them to stay safe and providing basic safety advice.

Local shopping centres, including The Light in Leeds, Bradford's Kirkgate Centre and Junction 32 at Castleford have all supported the campaign and helped to raise awareness over the summer months.

Inspector Jon Morgan of the Local Policing Department, said: “We are very pleased with the results of this summer Northdale which has confirmed that the already very low level of sexual offences in West Yorkshire’s streets has dropped even further.

“Even though the campaign is ending for now, the message very much remains the same.
 
“We always urge people not to make themselves vulnerable through binge drinking and when they do take a taxi ensure it is either pre-booked or is from a recognised rank.”

He added: “The efforts of partners make a major impact in helping us conduct operations such as this and it is only by working with them that we can continue to reduce crime and improve safety on our streets.”