Kent Police has trained two new police dogs who are able to detect spiking drugs
Arrests have been made in neighbourhoods across Kent as police officers step up patrols over the Christmas period.
Project Vigilant is being conducted across towns and cities in Kent to ensure women can socialise safely and confidently over the festive season.
Over the weekend of December 12- 15 officers were deployed into the centres of Canterbury, Medway and Maidstone to identify suspicious or predatory behaviour, with a particular focus on individuals who may pose a risk to women and girls. They patrolled the high streets and visited pubs, clubs and other venues.
Across the county, multiple stops were carried out, with intelligence reports gathered, and interventions made to tackle predatory sexual offending.
In Canterbury, officers dealt with an aggressive man asking women for money, issuing him with a Community Resolution. In addition, two suspects were identified and arrested in connection with an ongoing grievous bodily harm investigation.
In Maidstone, a man was stopped and spoken to after he was seen loitering at the top of Gabs Hill. Officers confronted him, and he left the area soon after. Additionally, three known sex offenders were engaged with after they were recognised by local patrols, no offences were identified, and intelligence was generated.
A patrol was approached by three women in Rochester high street who alleged a man had tried to make them enter an alleyway before showing them a knife. Officers identified a suspect and pursued on foot, after which he was found to have a knife as well as an ID and bank card which were in other people’s names.
A 19 year old from Rochester was arrested on suspicion of theft, aggravated burglary and possession of a weapon in public.
Kent Police has also trained two new police dogs who are able to detect spiking drugs. PD Sully and PD Max will be used to assist officers in identifying people who may be in possession of spiking drugs which can be used to commit serious sexual offences.
Superintendent Nick Sparkes said: “In the busy period leading up to Christmas, we are stepping up our presence and increasing patrols in high footfall areas. Intervening on suspicious activity early ensures that everyone can enjoy their night out securely. Operations like this form just part of our ongoing commitment to protecting women and girls and we will continue to take proactive measures against those who seek to cause harm, exploit vulnerable people, or threaten public safety.”
Police patrols will remain stepped up across Kent during the festive period, with targeted operations in varying towns and cities.
