Should I report this to the police or just forget about it?

[Jessica147]

I went for a walk around 11pm last night, it was dark but I stuck to well lit roads. When I was nearly home I came across a group of 10-15 teenage lads walking in the opposite direction. As I got closer I heard one say to another 'hey mate, why don't we just rape this girl'. As I walked past a few started shouting things at me but nothing actually happened. I felt pretty shaken by it though.

My instinct is to avoid going out for late night walks, but I also don't want to change my behaviour. It all seems a bit ridiculous to be scared of teenage boys when I teach teenage boys for a living! Would reporting to the police on 101 be sensible?

You could, but it would be your word against the word of 10-15 others (if you knew who they are that is)

Welcome to MN and to FWR, wuzzio.

Would you also suggest that a disabled person didn't report to the police a gang who talked about stealing his crutches and assaulting him with them?

Thanks, rosie, that's good to know.

I don't really care that it'd be my word against theirs tbh. I'd still call the police if it happened again - probs 999 immediately. I think the only thing I did wrong was waiting so long to report it.

That attitude says a lot really - no wonder kids do these things if they think they can get away with it because victims are either too scared to come forward, too used to it happening, or don't think they'll be believed.

Well done reporting it - you have probably strengthened the case of the next person who is subject to the same harassment and reports it and have improved their chances of getting taken seriously.

Credibility of witnesses is more to with the likelihood of their telling the truth than their sheer numbers.

Of course Jessica should have reported this. Even if the police can do nothing about this it is still worth recording.

You aren't daft, I think most people would be intimidated and worried. Shame on them for dismissing it but good on you for reporting.

Just wanted to post a quick update. I'm feeling proud of myself cos I just went out and walked to the shops, in the dark, all by myself. I know it seems like a little thing, but I'm so glad I didn't just give in to the fear cos now I have wine. Thanks for your support!

Good for you.
this happened last weekend and the 46yo perpetrator has already been caught and charged with sexual assault! This is the kind of policing we need all around the country, including the Met area!