Officers were busy during festive holiday

May I take this opportunity to wish all readers a happy New Year.

Last year was certainly challenging for a variety of reasons. However, going forward, Police Scotland continually review practices and procedures and part of this includes changes to the justice system which are being implemented on January 25.

These changes relate to arrest, detention, time in custody, review processes and procedures to be adopted if children are brought into custody.

The Criminal Justice (Scotland) Act 2016 creates essentially a duty for the police to safeguard and promote the wellbeing of a child or young person as a primary consideration, and to notify the local authority in certain circumstances.

In relation to all arrested persons, the Act creates a presumption of liberty – meaning that it must be necessary and proportionate to keep someone in custody.

This is especially relevant when dealing with younger children, and a police custody supervisor will question the need for a child to be brought into custody.

My role as sergeant in the Local Problem Solving Team will continue to evolve in line with future changes, as I will constantly look for improvements to keep people safe.

My team are totally committed to maintaining the strong links they have built over the past seven months with local community representatives, councillors, schools and partner agencies.

My officers are thoroughly enjoying their role and since we changed our operating model in May this year, the officers are now able to dedicate more time in their areas, learn in detail of local concerns and then work with partners to resolve them.

I am very confident that as the officers continue in their role, that things will improve further as they build up public trust and confidence.

It has been a busy time for us over the festive period.

As you may expect at this time of year, we have been dealing with general crime and anti-social behaviour, but a great deal of our time has been occupied with calls relating to concerns for people.

These calls relate to missing people or calls from family/friends regarding someone’s state of mind.

Since December 1, our subdivision has dealt with 234 calls of this nature – around eight calls a day.

Due to the nature of the calls they are often a priority, as there is concern for a person’s life.

Some of the incidents can be dealt with quickly, but others can take some time to resolve.

This can ultimately cause a delay in us attending other incidents.

Local officers are investigating two recent overnight break-ins to properties in the Crossford area, one of which involved a car being stolen, though it was later found.

Please remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour to the police.

Finally, may I wish everyone a happy New Year for 2018 and pass on my thanks to all who have been working and keeping the wheels turning over the festive period.