The Simon Levy murders have reignited urgent questions about policing and the safety of vulnerable women. Since Sarah Everard's killing in 2021, many promised reforms have yet to fully materialize. This article examines what has changed—and what still needs urgent action.
Simon Levy's Attacks: A Pattern of Predatory Violence
Simon Levy targeted sex workers, believing they were less likely to be believed or pursued. His attacks took place in isolated spots, hidden from CCTV, exploiting the victims' vulnerability. One survivor testified to a brutal assault, including rape and strangulation, that left her unconscious. Another victim, Sheryl Wilkins, was murdered in August 2025, and Carmenza Valencia-Trujillo was killed in March 2025.
The trial revealed that Levy's methods were calculated to avoid detection. He chose locations with limited surveillance and used violence to silence his victims. This case underscores the systemic failures in protecting marginalized women from serial predators.
Has Policing Changed Since Sarah Everard?
Sarah Everard's murder by a serving police officer triggered national outrage and a promise of sweeping reforms. Key measures were introduced, including better vetting of officers, improved response to reports of violence against women, and increased use of stranger risk assessments. However, implementation has been uneven, and many forces still struggle with resources and cultural resistance.
In the Simon Levy case, the survivor reported her attack to police but was initially arrested on another matter. She did identify Levy's location, yet it took further attacks before he was apprehended. This raises serious concerns about how seriously reports from sex workers are taken.

Key Reforms Introduced Post-Sarah Everard
- Mandatory vetting reviews for all police officers
- Increased use of domestic abuse and stalking protection orders
- Enhanced training for officers on violence against women and girls
- Creation of a national policing lead for violence against women
- Better data collection on repeat offenders
Comparison of Policing Measures: Then and Now
| Measure | Pre-2021 | Post-2021 |
|---|---|---|
| Vetting of officers | Basic background checks | Enhanced checks, periodic reviews |
| Response to sex worker reports | Often dismissed or ignored | Improved but still inconsistent |
| Use of forensic evidence | Standard procedure | Broader use of digital and DNA evidence |
| Victim support services | Limited | More specialized, but funding gaps remain |
What Still Needs to Change?
Despite progress, the Simon Levy case shows that gaps remain. Sex workers still face stigma that deters them from reporting crimes. Police must adopt a victim-centered approach that prioritizes safety over prosecution of unrelated offenses. Additionally, proactive monitoring of known offenders and better use of CCTV in high-risk areas are essential.
Community trust is fragile. The police must engage with sex worker advocacy groups and ensure that every report is taken seriously. Without these changes, predators like Levy will continue to exploit the system's blind spots.
FAQ
What were the main failures in the Simon Levy case?
How did Sarah Everard's murder change policing?
What can be done to better protect sex workers?
Key Takeaways
- Simon Levy's case highlights persistent gaps in protecting vulnerable women.
- Post-Sarah Everard reforms have not been fully implemented.
- Police must prioritize victim safety over other considerations.
- Community and advocacy groups are essential in building trust.
The Simon Levy murders are a stark reminder that words must be followed by action. Only by addressing systemic failures can we hope to prevent such tragedies in the future.
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