Project Vigilant - proactive operation to target predatory behaviour in Watford

An operation was carried out in Watford over the weekend, to target perpetrators of sexual predatory behaviour in the night-time economy.

Project Vigilant aims to identify and intercept those who may be displaying concerning predatory behaviour in the night-time economy, to protect the public and prevent sexual offences from occurring.

The initiative sees specially trained plain-clothed and uniformed police officers patrol public areas outside bars and pubs. The plain-clothed officers integrate themselves among the public and identify anyone of concern before their uniformed counterparts take action – which may include arrest.

Examples of the predatory behaviour officers are looking out for include sexual comments, inappropriate touching, and loitering.

Potential victims are also engaged with by uniformed officers, who will assess their welfare, record any offences and/or signpost to support resources.

Community Safety Sergeant Karl Diggins said: “Project Vigilant plays an important role in helping us keep people safe during a night out, ensuring our town centres remain welcoming places for everyone. By proactively identifying and engaging with anyone displaying concerning behaviour, we can intervene early and help prevent offences from occurring.

“Thankfully, during this operation, no predatory behaviour was observed by officers or brought to our attention. However, these patrols remain a valuable opportunity to deter offending, gather intelligence and reinforce our commitment to protecting people from harm in the night time economy.”

Police and Crime Commissioner for Hertfordshire Jonathan Ash-Edwards also joined officers for the patrols. He said: “People should be able to enjoy a night out without worrying about becoming a victim of unwanted attention, harassment or worse. Project Vigilant is about identifying risks early and protecting people before harm can occur.

“Many people won't even know these patrols are taking place, but that quiet, preventative work can make a real difference. By actively looking for signs of predatory behaviour and intervening where necessary, officers are helping to make Hertfordshire's night-time economy safer and more welcoming for everyone.”

First launched by Thames Valley Police in 2019, Hertfordshire Constabulary piloted Project Vigilant in Watford in 2023. Since then, it has been rolled out in towns across the county, with more than 130 officers receiving specialist training as part of the project.

This includes behavioural detection tuition, where officers are taught a scientific based process used to detect anomalous human behaviour. The training gives officers an insight into how sexual predators think and behave and equips them with the tools and knowledge to identify if someone’s behaviour is concerning. The specialist training can also be used by officers during their routine patrols, not just during these operations.