POLICE patrols have been stepped up in the Everton area and other parts of the city popular with prostitutes in a bid to reassure people of their safety. Officers from across Liverpool have been drafted in to patrol Everton on foot, while teams are travelling around other areas frequented by sex workers - particularly around London Road - to offer safety advice. A Daily Post reporter accompanied Acting Chief Inspector Kevin Johnson and his team on patrol last night. Insp Johnson said: "These patrols we are undertaking is to talk to the sex workers. "While we are not in the important area, the community of street workers is quite tight-knit. We just want to reassure the community that there is a large police presence and they're safe. "The message that we are giving to them is, where possible, go with a friend, don't walk in dark, unlit areas and be even more wary of people than usual." Insp Johnson said the nature of the relationship between prostitutes and police meant that some were too frightened to talk, but most understood why they were there. He said: "The fact is, we are showing a different face to what they are used to. Normally they see us as ogres but I think they appreciate that we are also protectors." One prostitute, working close to Liverpool University, spoke to the Post but did not wish to be named. She said: "A lot of girls have moved out further to different areas. "I will go home before it gets dark tonight. I knew Pauline Stephen - only to say hello to. "A lot of girls won't talk to the police, but I know we have to at the moment." Related stories:
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