Project Vigilant – a pilot being carried out by the force – will see plain-clothed officers with specialist training acting as spotters during busy evenings, identifying people who appear to present a risk to others by displaying sexually predatory behaviour.
These concerns will be reported to colleagues in uniform, who will step in to disrupt potentially criminal behaviour before it happens.
The scheme is being trialled over weekends in December with the aim of rolling it out across the force area in the new year.
Chief Inspector Dominic Jones said:
“This is an exciting new project for Dyfed-Powys Police, and one we’re looking forward to getting off the ground. We’re confident Project Vigilant will have a great impact in helping to reassure and protect women during the nighttime economy.
“Women should feel safe on a night out and should not feel the need to change their behaviour to stay so. By looking out for potential predators, we will ultimately be changing the behaviours of those who could cause harm, and making our communities safer for all.”
The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner has funded the pilot under the Serious Violence Duty. PCC Dafydd Llywelyn said:
“As Police and Crime Commissioner, I’m committed to ensuring the safety of women in our communities, particularly during busy night-time periods.
“Project Vigilant is an important step toward proactive and preventative policing, aiming to identify and disrupt predatory behaviour before any harm can occur.
“This initiative not only helps protect individuals but also reinforces our commitment to creating safer public spaces across Dyfed-Powys.
“I’m proud to support this pilot and look forward to its impact on our communities.”
[Lead image: Dyfed Powys Police]
