Police must now rebuild shaken trust

THE murder of Sarah Everard sent shockwaves through the country.

For a young woman just walking home to be snatched off the streets and killed is terrifying.

But perhaps the most alarming aspect of the case was the fact that Sarah died at the hands of a serving police officer.

Wayne Couzens’ crime shakes us so because it challenges the faith we have in the police.

It shocked us because we have been taught to trust and rely on the police. And when that trust is broken, it damages us all.

The case also brought into the light the terrible fear women feel when walking the streets.

A poll in today’s newspaper shows most people want the appointment of a minister to keep streets safe. It would be a start.

Disease

There are also plans to set up a dedicated service people could use to track them on their journeys, with a special 888 number for those who fear they are being followed.

It shouldn’t have to be like this. But these are the symptoms. It’s the long-term disease of violence against women we need to treat.

In the meantime, it is important to keep some faith in the police.

The murder of Sarah Everard is an evil aberration and although it has brought to light many more examples of misogyny in the force, they remain the exception.

The police must root out the problem and rebuild trust. There is a lot of work to do – but there is a lot to build on.

Today, we also bring you the story of DS Rachael Foy, whose dedicated police work – even after a case was closed – helped bring a child abuser to justice.

Brave, determined and dedicated to our safety. That’s the true face of UK policing.