Crime in Scotland continues to fall as the clear up rate reaches an all-time high.
Recorded crime in Scotland is now at its lowest level since 1974. The number of crimes has fallen by 13 per cent, a drop of just over 41,000 in 2012-13 to 273,053. In the former Northern Constabulary total crimes were down by 15%, while total crimes and offences were down by 3%.
The clear up rate for crimes increased last year and is now at its highest since 1976, and Northern Constabulary had the second highest clear up rate of the eight former police force areas.
Commenting on the figures, SNP MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch Dave Thompson said: “I am pleased to welcome these encouraging figures which show recorded crime falling for the sixth year in a row to its lowest level for 39 years, and a significant drop in crimes in the Highlands and Islands. With the number of police officers at an all-time high it is clear that the Scottish Government’s policy is delivering results.
“There were big falls in the number of non-sexual crimes of violence (-16%) and incidents of fire-raising or vandalism (-21%), although there was a rise in the number of sexual offences reported which shows the need for continued vigilance.
“The rate of crimes in the former Northern Constabulary area, at 390 per 10,000 population, was the second lowest in Scotland and I congratulate all the staff who have delivered these reductions.
“By keeping over 1,000 extra police officers on our streets, 82 of those in the former Northern Constabulary, we are sending a clear message that crime will not be tolerated and will not pay, and by securing the long term future of our police force we will make sure that Scotland remains a safe country for law abiding citizens.
“I understand that crimes have continued to fall during the first months of operation under the new Highlands and Islands Division of Police Scotland, and I look forward to welcoming more progress as the new single police force settles in.”
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