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Met Police Launch Female Officer Team to Rebuild Trust with Street Sex Workers
By Drooid · · How we work
Police Reform Initiative Following the Simon Levy Case
Officers told the BBC that the Metropolitan Police must shift away from policies that criminalise women engaged in street sex work. The call follows the Simon Levy case, in which a convicted sex offender was released and subsequently killed two women and raped another—victims described as vulnerable and sometimes involved in street sex work. The incident highlighted a series of policing failures, prompting internal criticism of the force’s approach to sex workers.
Background of the Simon Levy Case
Investigations into the case identified gaps in how the Met engaged with street-based sex workers, leaving them exposed to violent offenders and discouraging them from reporting crimes. The findings pointed to an “inherent tension” between enforcement tactics and the safety of vulnerable individuals.
Pilot Programme: Two-Officer Female Team in North London
In response, the Met is piloting a dedicated team of two female officers in north London. The team’s mandate is to engage directly with street sex workers, build rapport, and encourage victims to report assaults, theft, and other crimes. Officers emphasized that a gender-matched approach aims to reduce fear of arrest and improve cooperation.
Anticipated Outcomes for Trust and Reporting
Police officials expect the pilot to increase confidence among sex workers, leading to higher reporting rates of offenses committed against them. By moving away from criminalisation, the Met hopes to address the tension identified in the Levy investigation and create a safer environment for a population historically reluctant to seek police assistance.
Official Statements & Responses
Met representatives have publicly acknowledged the need for reform, describing the pilot as a “step toward rebuilding trust.” They indicated that the programme will be evaluated for effectiveness before any broader rollout.