Tuesday briefing: What the Simon Levy case tells us about the women the justice system keeps failing
Summary
Simon Levy, a registered sex offender, was sentenced to life in prison for killing two women who were involved in sex work. The case highlights how women who sell sex often face violence and do not receive proper protection or support from the justice system.Key Facts
- Simon Levy was sentenced to a rare whole life tariff for murdering Carmenza Valencia-Trujillo and Sheryl Wilkins.
- Both victims, and others targeted by Levy, were vulnerable women involved in sex work.
- Levy believed he could harm these women without consequences because of their profession.
- Women who sell sex often face high levels of violence but are reluctant to report it to police.
- A UK charity, National Ugly Mugs, helps sex workers report violence, mostly anonymously.
- Only 8% of violent incidents reported to this charity are shared with the police.
- A 2024 Scotland survey found 90% of women in prostitution experienced violence; many had past sexual abuse or exploitation.
- Police have shown dismissive attitudes towards sex workers, contributing to ongoing risks.
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