‘Stalker’ charged with trying to stab victim’s colleague at City office after being blocked from seeing her

Police officers on pre-Christmas patrol in the Square Mile - (City of London Police)

A man has been charged with stalking and assault after allegedly turning up at a woman’s office before trying to stab her colleague when he wasn’t allowed to see her.

The 28-year-old was arrested during a crackdown on violence against women and girls in the Square Mile.

City of London Police last week launched its Christmas initiative to make it safer for those coming to London to work or out partying during the festive season.

Officers will target sexual perpetrators engaged in indecent exposure, unwanted staring and catcalling who generally make life hell for them.

A slogan “If cheer turns to fear, we are here” has been adopted.

Commissioner Peter O’Doherty said such “non-contact” sex offences often lead to more serious crimes as he vowed to make the capital’s night-time economy safer.

The suspect accused of stalking and attempted grievous bodily harm has been remanded in custody, a spokesman said.

Separately, a 33-year-old man was arrested and charged with the actual bodily harm of a woman at a hotel in the city.

Dedicated officers have received specialist training and will be on patrol in the run-up to the New Year.

Mr O’Doherty said: “The City is a great place to visit during the festive season and we’re expecting large numbers coming into the Square Mile to enjoy everything it has to offer.

“During the Christmas party season, women in the City shouldn’t have to fear being abused or harassed when they’re out. We’re committed to making our streets safer and we specifically target perpetrators who make women and girls feel unsafe.

Dedicated officers will be on patrol during the Christmas party season in the City, helping to crackdown on sexual predators, including ‘non-contact’ sex offences like indecent exposure, unwanted staring and catcalling.

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— City of London Police (@CityPolice) December 2, 2024

“Our dedicated officers will be out in force across the City, using covert and overt tactics to tackle acquisitive crimes such as bag thefts and phone snatching. These crimes have significant impact on victims and we’re determined to prevent them.

“Our warning to criminals: if you come into the City this Christmas intent on committing crimes, we will catch you and bring you to justice.”

Operation Reframe - a monthly project focusing on preventing violence against females in the night-time economy - will be testing the “Ask for Angela” safety scheme at licenced premises and hold drink-spiking workshops.

Officers keep a watch for sexual predators near London Liverpool Street station (City of London Police)

Safe havens have been set up at the City of London Corporation’s 600-year-old Guildhall headquarters, The Leadenhall Building and Novotel London Tower Bridge.

Staff can contact police, call family and friends, and provide water, Wi-Fi and toilets. Women can charge their phones or wait for a taxi to get home safely.

Tijs Broeke, chair of the City of London’s Police Authority Board, added: “Let’s all play a part by supporting these efforts and looking out for one another during this busy period.

“If you notice suspicious activity or witness a crime, report it to the police.

“Your vigilance can help protect others and keep the City safe this Christmas.“

Anyone who sees something suspicious should report to police on 101, or 999 in an emergency.