Crime on the rise as restrictions are lifted
The demands for police action in Tayside are increasing as the COVID-19 impact continues to reduce, according to new figures.
Overall reported crime rose, including violent and sexual crime, vandalism, and fraud during the first quarter of 202122 when compared to April and June 2020 when some of the strictest COVID measures were in place.
Anti-social behaviour including noise disturbance and neighbour disputes reduced in this period with local residents and workers playing an important role in supporting related police action.
Recorded offences relating to the supply of drugs also rose significantly reflecting efforts to reduce the harm that controlled drugs cause to communities in Tayside.
There has also been a significant increase in the number of missing person incidents, many of which have been quickly resolved through assistance from the public.
Divisional commander chief superintendent Phil Davison said: “The figures from this latest report show that, while restrictions relating to the pandemic continue to have an impact on the policing needs of our communities, the effect is different when compared to last year, when the most stringent measures were in place.
“During the first quarter of 2021- 22 we have seen an increase in the number of offences recorded in relation to the supply of drugs as we continue to focus our efforts to try and reduce the harm caused by drugs to our communities in Tayside.
“Learning from the division’s operation Argonite team – an intelligence-led initiative aimed at suppressing violence in Dundee – has been shared across Tayside and used to successfully target drug dealers throughout the region.
“We also see a rise in reported sexual crimes but a slight drop in the number of domestic abuse incidents recorded.
“We know that sexual crime, domestic abuse and incidents relating to wider vulnerability remain under-reported and therefore I would like to encourage people to come forward and report these incidents.
“We have also seen a slight rise in dangerous driving offences reported and, therefore, I would like to urge motorists to be safe on the roads and to play their part in making the roads a safer place for all users, particularly as we see increasing levels of vehicle use following the easing of lockdown travel restrictions.
“As the restrictions continue to ease, it is to be expected that reported crimes will continue to rise as we enjoy more freedoms in comparison to last year. However, please be assured that officers and staff across Tayside are committed to working with our communities to deliver an effective public service and ensure that Tayside is a safe place to live, work and visit.”
The Performance Report will be presented at the Scottish Police Authority policing performance committee on Wednesday, September 1.