Police Now detective supports victim through harrowing stalking ordeal and ensures justice at court 

Leah is passionate about tackling violence against women and girls (VAWG). When the case was reported to her team, she reviewed the evidence and knew that the offender was a dangerous man.

He had previous convictions, and statements given by the victim and witnesses were harrowing – including sexual harassment, following her home from work, eavesdropping, and trying to give her sex toys as gifts.

The victim – ‘Sarah’ (not her real name) – felt so unsafe that she even dyed her hair and changed her route home from work in an attempt to avoid him.

She said: “At first, I tried to brush his behaviour off or minimise it. But I think I was just in disbelief and denial about what was happening. In reality, the effect it had on me was huge. I was terrified.”

Leah was appointed Officer in Case – given primary responsibility for managing and progressing the subsequent investigation. 

This included gathering CCTV footage, taking witness statements, and conducting a five-hour police interview with the suspect. She searched a residential property to seize crucial evidence and corroborate the statements – working overtime to build the case file and make sure nothing was missed. She further liaised with the Crown Prosecution Service to ensure the strongest case possible was presented at court.

Sarah said: “Even though [the offender] is now behind bars, I still have nightmares, and I am still often scared when I leave work. It hits me in new ways every day. But Leah made the process a little bit easier. She was professional, caring, and reassuring. She’s truly a credit to the force, and I think Police Now is doing important work to bring more women and passionate people into policing. I hope that others out there don’t hesitate to seek help if needed – you will be heard, you will be supported.”

Leah did everything she could to support Sarah through the horrific ordeal, talking with her every week and arranging a tour of the court in advance of the trial to help her emotionally prepare. 

Detective Constable Leah Baker said: “I joined Police Now’s programme to help tackle violence against women and girls, and to be in a profession that makes a real difference to people’s lives. The offender’s actions can never be undone, and the damage is lasting and horrific – but seeing those convictions at court and knowing I did everything I could to support [Sarah] is why I joined the programme, and what motivates me every day. I hope any other victims of stalking or sexual harassment see this and know that we will do everything we can to not only seek justice but also provide the support they need.”

Police Now pioneered national direct-entry detective training across England and Wales and is the only policing organisation in the Times Top 100 Graduate Employers list. It consistently recruits more women to its programme compared to the policing workforce national average – helping to drive stronger representation in frontline teams.