Plain-clothes police officers will be deployed to busy pubs and clubs in a specific area of Wales during the festive season to mitigate sexual offences and violence targeted at women. Dyfed-Powys Police is implementing a pilot project named Project Vigilant, aiming to deter predatory behaviour by identifying individuals displaying such conduct. These plain-clothed officers, specially trained as spotters, will work during peak hours, signalling uniformed officers if they detect ‘potential predators’. The initiative intends to disrupt potential criminal actions before they unfold, ultimately creating a safer environment for everyone.
The scheme involves plain-clothed officers receiving specialised training in behavioural observation techniques to enhance risk management skills. Upon identifying concerning behaviour, these officers will promptly communicate with their uniformed counterparts for intervention. Chief Inspector Dominic Jones of Dyfed-Powys Police expressed optimism about Project Vigilant’s potential impact in safeguarding women in the nighttime economy. He emphasised the importance of ensuring women’s safety during nights out without altering their behaviour, highlighting the project’s objective of altering harmful behaviours and enhancing community safety.
Project Vigilant is set to run as a trial over three weekends in December, with plans to expand throughout the Dyfed-Powys Police area in the coming year. The project’s funding is provided by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, reinforcing the commitment to proactive policing strategies aimed at thwarting predatory behaviours before they escalate. Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn endorsed the initiative, citing its role in promoting safer public spaces and preventing harm in communities. The pilot is viewed as a crucial step towards proactive policing and early intervention in potential offences.
Officers under Project Vigilant will patrol high-traffic areas known for evening activities, actively monitoring for specific behaviours that raise concerns. By deploying plain-clothed officers in strategic locations, the project aims not only to protect individuals but also to dissuade criminal activity and ensure public safety. The collaborative effort between spotters and uniformed officers is envisioned to deter criminal elements from targeting vulnerable individuals, such as women, during nightlife. The innovative approach aligns with Dyfed-Powys Police’s commitment to preventing crimes through proactive measures.
Efforts to combat predatory behaviours are part of a broader strategy employed by Dyfed-Powys Police, focusing on preventative policing to identify and address potential criminal activities. The use of plain-clothed officers to detect concerning behaviours and disrupt criminal intentions showcases the force’s dedication to community safety. The initiative aims to promote a culture of vigilance among officers and the public, fostering a sense of security and wellbeing in social settings. By intervening proactively before criminal acts occur, law enforcement seeks to enforce a zero-tolerance approach towards harmful behaviours.
As the festive season approaches, the implementation of Project Vigilant represents a proactive step towards enhancing safety in nightlife venues and protecting vulnerable individuals from predatory behaviours. The collaborative approach between plain-clothed spotters and uniformed officers underscores the importance of early intervention in potential criminal activities. By leveraging behavioural observation techniques and specialist training, Dyfed-Powys Police aims to create a safer environment for all community members, particularly women. The pilot project’s success could pave the way for broader implementation of similar initiatives across the region, fostering a culture of prevention and vigilance.