Policing target kerb crawlers in Northampton

Officers from the Northampton Neighbourhood Policing Team have been carrying out an operation to engage with street workers in Spring Boroughs and Semilong, Northampton.

Operation Uncanny aims to challenge kerb crawlers in the area and safeguard the vulnerable workers on the street, signposting them to support networks such as Substance to Solution and dedicated outreach teams from West Northamptonshire Council.

PC James Wetherall, who is one of the officers leading the action, said: “Some of the women that we deal with are among the most vulnerable in society. 

“If this operation can save just one woman, then it has served its purpose and we will continue to do this moving forward.”

Detective Chief Inspector Michelle Douglas, who is leading the Violence Against Women and Girls week of action, said: “Northamptonshire Police is dedicated to protecting vulnerable women and girls from all walks of life. This operation plays a crucial part in safeguarding street workers and offering them alternative pathways, with the help of our partner agencies.

“Violence Against Women and Girls is a matter of priority for the force, and we will continue to tackle this type of criminality across the county.”

If you have any information about this activity happening in your area, you can report it online at northants.police.uk, or phone 101. You can also report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.