Legal News

Hounslow Police and Hounslow Council are targeting kerb crawlers in the borough in efforts to safeguard women involved in prostitution – some of whom may be victims of human trafficking.

The council says that four CCTV cameras have been installed around Hayes Road and the border with Ealing to identify kerb crawlers – sixty-three kerb crawlers frequenting Hayes Road, a known area for sex workers, have been sent warning letters to their homes using vehicle number plate recognition.

In the last 12 months, two ongoing police operations have been focusing on men who buy sex on the streets or use brothels.

Operation KerbSafe and Operation Pathway have come about following Hounslow’s community safety partnerships’ Exiting Prostitution Strategy, which aims to reduce prostitution by targeting those who buy sex and exploit women.

As part of this work, 57 addresses have been investigated by the police, following reports that they were being used for prostitution – and 53 have stopped operating as a result of police intervention, with two receiving a three-month court closure order.

Police have also made one arrest for trafficking, four arrests for running a brothel and two for kerb crawling.

Cabinet Member for Public Protection at Hounslow Council, Councillor Sue Sampson said:

“Approaching someone in a public place and asking for sex is illegal.

“The work that has been done so far is helping these vulnerable women exit prostitution. We want to build on that by targeting the demand.

“Our message is clear – think twice if you’re thinking of buying sex in Hounslow. We are watching you and there will be consequences.”

The council said that 90 women had been approached with offers of help to exit prostitution, with 29 of them referred to Nia Ending Violence, a charity working with the council to support them in doing so.


Duncan Lewis Crime Lawyers

Duncan Lewis crime lawyers can advise at any stage of a charge involving sexual offences, including charges relating to prostitution, sexual assault, rape, child sexual exploitation, online grooming, revenge porn – or making, distributing or downloading indecent images.

There are Duncan Lewis offices nationwide and in most major cities – including more than 20 offices across London and the southeast.

Duncan Lewis is a leading firm on Legal Aid criminal defence lawyers – and one of our crime solicitors can usually reach a police station for interview under caution within an hour.

For expert legal advice on charges involving sexual offences, call Duncan Lewis crime solicitors on 0333 772 0409.

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