Attacks on my officers who are protecting others are despicable
The past week has been a challenging one across the division with officers and staff working flat out to respond to calls and incidents.
I am extremely grateful to them all for their commitment, professionalism and resilience in the face of significant demands.
Six of our officers were assaulted in the space of six hours across Renfrewshire which is both disappointing and utterly unacceptable.
These are the very people who are going above and beyond to protect others and should not have to face such despicable behaviour. Those committing the assaults have been arrested.
Readers may be aware of an incident that took place on Tuesday night in Springbank Road, Paisley, which took many hours to resolve, including evacuating some premises near to the incident. I want to thank local residents for their patience and telephone calls that assisted officers and partners bring the incident to a safe conclusion for all involved. I also want to commend the multi-agency working that took place that evening, again demonstrating the strength of partnerships in Renfrewshire.
I am also disappointed to report the death of a 48-yearold man in Glen Street, Paisley on Tuesday. Two men appeared from custody at Paisley Sheriff Court on Thursday.
I would like to reassure the public that this was an isolated incident and there is no risk to the wider public.
On a more positive note, officers responded to a call of a housebreaking in progress, supported by the Air Support Unit (Helicopter) and dog section, leading to arrests connected with a number of housebreakings in the Johnstone area.
This is an excellent example of Police Scotland national assets assisting local officer make important arrests.
Thank you to those who called in to report the suspicious activity which undoubtedly led to these arrests.
Officers quickly responded to a reported hate crime at premises in Hairst Street, Renfrew, leading to the arrest of a man.
There is no place for any form of hatred in our communities. We treat such crimes seriously and as a priority, arresting those responsible when evidence allows.
Earlier this week, meanwhile, a Yamaha outboard engine was stolen from Castle Semple Sailing Club, Lochwinnoch, and a car was set on fire in Balmoral Drive, Bishopton.
Any information in relation to these crimes would be very helpful.
Chief Inspector Hazel Scott and her team are carrying out a local initiative, raising awareness to the dangers and effects of carrying knives or weapons.
Working jointly with paramedics, officers are visiting schools across Renfrew and Johnstone speaking with the pupils.
Lastly, on Wednesday our divisional Wellbeing Champions ran a well-being awareness day from the Public Protection Unit to raise money for charity.
The day included healthy eating advice, financial advice, welfare support and a home baking sale to raise money.
I am extremely thankful to all those involved with pulling this event together as the welfare and well-being of our people is foremost in my mind.
Thank you to all involved.