Police to start recording unwanted sexual advances in same crime category as racist abuse
Nottinghamshire force becomes the first in Britain to change hate crime definition
WOLF-whistlers could face arrest under new rules introduced by police.
Nottinghamshire Police has become to first force to recognise misogyny as a hate crime in the same way that racism is.
And it means that men harassing women in the street could now be arrested.
The landmark decision comes after the force worked closely with a women’s centre in Nottingham.
Chief Constable Sue Fish said: "I'm delighted that we are leading the way towards tackling misogyny in all its forms.
“It's a very important aspect of the overall hate crime work being conducted and one that will make Nottinghamshire a safer place for all women.
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"What women face, often on a daily basis, is absolutely unacceptable and can be extremely distressing.
"Nottinghamshire Police is committed to taking misogynistic hate crime seriously and encourages anyone who is affected by it to contact us without hesitation.
"The work we are doing with Nottingham Women's Centre is so valuable and I am looking forward to continuing that work."
Hate crimes are defined as acts that have been carried out on the basis of an individual’s prejudice or hatred.
Domestic abuse will not come under the umbrella of the new ruling because it is dealt with under its own comprehensive laws.
Melanie Jeffs, Centre Manager at Nottingham Women's Centre said: "We're pleased to see Nottinghamshire Police recognise the breadth of violence and intimidation that women experience on a daily basis in our communities.”
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