Police in new bid to cut sexual offences

Source

Police volunteers will be out across Bradford district on Saturday [dec 14] aiming to help reduce sexual offences in the the run-up to Christmas.

West Yorkshire Police’s Operation Northdale initiative will see the volunteers team up with neighbourhood policing team officers and Wibsey Street Angels to help keep revellers safe over the festive season.

The initiative received national recognition at the ACPO Excellence in Policing Awards.

On Saturday, the Northdale teams will be in Shipley town centre in the afternoon and then Wibsey and Bradford city centre in the evening.They will be handing out anti-drink spiking devices, crime prevention advice and flyers containing safety messages, as well as identifying and helping vulnerable people.

Chief Inspector Damien Miller said: “Christmas is a busy time of year in the pubs, bars and clubs of Bradford and it is important that people know the risks that come with alcohol and the impact it can have on their safety.

“We conduct this operation every year as a reminder to people to plan their nights out, stick together, make prior arrangements for safe transport home and do not make themselves vulnerable through binge-drinking.

“Our teams of officers and volunteers will be out providing reassurance, to women in particular, and I hope this makes people continue to sit up and take note of these important messages and keep themselves safe and out of trouble.”