Police probe 42 domestic incidents weekly
But just over half lead to criminal conviction
Police investigated fortytwo domestic abuse incidents every week in West Lothian last year.
But incredibly, of the 2203 calls to cops between April 2015 and April 2016, only 1123 incidents resulted in a criminal conviction. The statistics, which were released by the Scottish Government this week, showed that the number of reports was slightly down from 2218 in 2014/15.
And they represented the lowest number of reports in the county since 2011/12 when there were 2132 incidents.
Assistant Chief Constable Mark Williams, who has the strategic lead for Police Scotland’s response to domestic abuse, said: “These figures illustrate the complexity and scale of the issue but domestic abuse isn’t about statistics or numbers alone; it’s about the impact it
has on vulnerable victims, their families and our communities.
“We work very closely with a wide range of partners, and dedicate significant resources to try and prevent offending taking place in the first instance.
“Where abuse is reported, we work hard to support victims at every stage and we relentlessly pursue those who think it is acceptable to carry out abuse.”
The report reveals incidents of domestic violence are more common at the weekend, and the 26 to 30 years age group has the highest incident rate for both victims and attackers.
Assistant Chief Constable Williams added: “If you are a victim of domestic abuse, I would encourage you to report it.
“We will listen to you, you will be treated sensitively and professionally and we will ensure you have access to the right support throughout.”
West Lothian witnessed 123 domestic incidents per 10,000 people in 2015-16, which ranks it at joint ninth place — with Renfrewshire — out of Scotland’s 32 local authorities.
Almond Valley MSP Angela Constance said: “Domestic abuse in any form must be eradicated.
“No one should live in fear at home or in the wider community and this type of behaviour cannot be tolerated.
“I welcome the drop in domestic abuse incidents in West Lothian and across Scotland, but we must do everything we can to stop this type of behaviour.
“We must also remember that domestic abuse is not always physical and new legislation is being prepared to widen our laws to tackle emotional and psychological abuse.”
Lothian MSP Neil Findlay said: “Domestic abuse is an appalling crime and there is no place for it in Scotland. It is a violent and psychologically and physically damaging crime that can devastate families.
“A drop in incidents is welcome but questions will be asked as to why only half of all incidents result in a crime or offence. “
Mhairi McGowan of specialist independent domestic abuse advocacy service ASSIST said: “It is imperative that the message is made loud and clear to victims and to those who perpetrate it that abuse in all its forms will not be tolerated.”