UPDATE: Female police officers in London are confronting a disturbing surge in sexual aggression and abuse during late-night patrols, particularly in busy areas like Soho. Just last night, December 29, 2025, two officers experienced firsthand the harrowing realities of working on the streets amid rampant drunkenness and hostility.
As the holiday season brings throngs of revelers to Central London, women officers report relentless harassment, including crude comments and threats. “They face remarks like, ‘Nice handcuffs, I know what I could do with those,’” explained Superintendent Natasha Evans of the Westminster division. The urgent situation highlights the ongoing challenges female police face, even while representing authority.
Earlier this year, 18 percent of Superintendent Evans’s team patrolling the West End were female, but the target is set at 25 percent by February. The goal is to encourage more women to join the force despite the growing incidents of public abuse. Just months ago, a male suspect was sentenced to eight years for violently attacking two female officers, a stark reminder of the dangers they encounter.
During a night shift from 9 PM to 7 AM, officers PC Mansoor and PC Hennessy-Jones patrol areas filled with bars and clubs, encountering a mix of intoxicated party-goers and aggressive individuals. Onlookers often fail to respect their authority, with some men openly sexualizing their uniform. “Your face is too nice to be a police officer,” one man remarked to PC Hennessy-Jones, underscoring the inappropriate comments they regularly face.
The officers’ night is filled with unpredictability – from attending to a woman throwing up to dealing with reports of domestic violence. At 10:30 PM, they responded to a report of a male assaulting a female in a nearby park. The urgency of their job intensifies as they witness escalating situations.
Despite the chaos, both officers remain dedicated to their mission. “I want to help people,” said PC Hennessy-Jones, who, alongside her partner, handles various incidents with poise and professionalism. Their commitment is evident as they navigate through drunken crowds, providing support and security.
The environment is not just hostile from the public; it reflects a broader culture within the police force itself. An investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct revealed troubling misogynistic behaviors among male officers, leading to accusations of institutional sexism within the Metropolitan Police. Following the tragic murder of Sarah Everard in 2021, these issues have come under renewed scrutiny.
As the night progresses, the officers continue to face both external threats and internal challenges, highlighting the need for systemic change within the force. “We can’t say much in uniform, but we have the law on our side,” PC Mansoor noted, emphasizing their determination to uphold justice despite the obstacles.
As 1:30 AM approaches, a new emergency call comes through: a female reporting she was held in a bathroom against her will. The officers prepare to respond, underscoring the constant need for vigilance in a city where danger can emerge at any moment.
The experiences of these female officers reveal a pressing need for greater awareness and action against misogyny, both on the streets and within law enforcement. Their bravery serves as a powerful reminder of the vital role they play in ensuring public safety, even in the face of adversity.
As this story unfolds, it is clear that the fight against harassment and violence towards female police officers is far from over. The public must recognize their sacrifices and the challenges they face, fostering a safer environment for all.
