New reports confirm a troubling rise in violence and misogyny directed at female police officers patrolling the streets of Soho, Central London. On the evening of December 29, 2025, officers faced not only sexual aggression but also witnessed a shocking incident of physical violence, underscoring the urgent need for change and protection for women in law enforcement.
As the festive season approached, pubs overflowed with revelers, creating a chaotic atmosphere. Two female officers, PC Mansoor and PC Hennessy-Jones, were on patrol, equipped with body cameras and a strong sense of duty. Yet, they encountered relentless verbal harassment, with men making inappropriate comments like, “Nice handcuffs, I know what I could do with those,” as they attempted to maintain order in a drunken crowd.
Superintendent Natasha Evans, responsible for the West End police team, reported that 18 percent of her officers are women, with a target of 25 percent set for February. Despite this progressive goal, the pervasive disrespect and aggression from the public pose a significant challenge.
The alarming trend of violence against female officers escalated this past year. In September, Mark Weatherley, aged 43, was sentenced to eight years for a brutal attack on two female officers assisting a victim. Weatherley claimed they “deserved it,” and expressed intentions to repeat his actions. In another disturbing incident, officer Declan Diedrick was convicted for stabbing an officer in the face with a knife during an unprovoked attack.
The situation is compounded by internal issues within the Metropolitan Police. A 2022 investigation revealed sexist and misogynistic group chats among male officers, leading to a damning review by Baroness Casey, who labeled the Met as “institutionally sexist.” This backdrop makes the streets even more hazardous for female officers like PC Mansoor and PC Hennessy-Jones, who face a “double whammy” of external and internal misogyny.
During a recent night shift, the officers encountered a range of situations, from assisting lost children to intervening in domestic disputes. At one point, they responded to a report of a male assaulting a female in a park. “The external threat is far greater,” Superintendent Evans stated, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced support for women in policing.
As the patrol continued, the officers dealt with escalating tensions. At 11 PM, they witnessed a chaotic scene where a woman was harassed by a group of intoxicated men. One “hero” intervened but ended up injured, suffering serious head trauma and requiring hospitalization. This incident highlights the unpredictable dangers faced by officers on the beat.
Despite the challenges, PC Mansoor and PC Hennessy-Jones remain dedicated to their roles. They navigate the streets with resolve, demonstrating their commitment to public safety, even amid persistent abuse. PC Hennessy-Jones remarked, “It would be wrong to say that we don’t feel scared. We’re human, but that doesn’t stop us from doing our jobs.”
As the clock struck 1:30 AM, a new call for help came through the radio: a woman reported being trapped in a restroom by a male. The officers were due for a break yet immediately responded, showcasing their unwavering commitment to duty.
The night in Soho serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by female police officers. They confront the dual challenges of public aggression and internal biases while striving to protect and serve their community. Their courage deserves recognition and support as they navigate the complexities of their vital roles on the front lines.
As these developments unfold, the conversation around misogyny in the police force and society at large must continue. The urgent need for change is clear, and the safety of female officers and the public alike hangs in the balance.
