Police operation to reduce sexual offences

Operation Northdale will see officers, police volunteers, special constables, street angels and night marshalls working together to keep people safe in the run up to Christmas.

The scheme, which received national recognition at the ACPO Excellence in Policing Awards, will involve increased patrols in town and city centres throughout the district. Officers will be helping vulnerable people, giving away free anti-drink spiking devices and issuing crime prevention advice.

The scheme is aimed at raising awareness of the dangers of excessive drinking and the need for people to stay with friends and make prior arrangements to get home safely.

The operation will be supported by a marketing campaign on radio, in pubs and clubs and on West Yorkshire Police’s website, twitter and Facebook.

Chief Inspector Jaene Booth said: “Christmas is a busy time of year in the pubs, bars and clubs around West Yorkshire 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 people, in particular women, and I hope people continue to sit up and take note of these important messages and keep themselves safe and out of trouble.”