Bid to quell fears after sex attack
MSP raises residents concerns with police
An MSP has held talks with police over community safety fears after a recent sex attack in Erskine.
Derek Ma c k ay joined community policing Inspector Cassie Glass after a 43- year- old woman was sexually assaulted while out walking her dog.
The shocking incident happened at 3.15am on Sunday, July 15, on a footpath in Rashieburn, near to Rashielee Avenue.
A major manhunt has since been launched to snare the suspect and police have been carrying out increased patrols in the area to reassure members of the public.
Mr Ma c k ay , M S P for Renfrewshire North and West, said: “I met with local police Inspector Cassie Glass to discuss the recent incidents in Erskine and other issues in general.
“Enquiries are ongoing into the recent sexual assault in Erskine and are being undertaken by a dedicated team of officers.
“I will be kept up to date with the investigation as it progresses.
“In relation to general policing in the town, we discussed the concerns local residents have raised with me.
“Some are worried about the issue of local patrols.
“I have been assured that, as well as community police officers in Erskine, vehicle units are on regular patrol in Erskine.
“I am contacting Renfrewshire Council to make enquiries regarding CCTV in the area, and the possibility of increasing this in the town.”
He added: “This will not only help to deter criminal activity, particularly antisocial behaviour, but also be useful with any investigation when offences do unfortunately occur.
“Overall, the feedback from Erskine residents is that it is a safe and pleasant place to live.
“It is unfortunate that recent incidents have resulted in some people feeling uneasy.
“I hope this will be addressed and that the council, working with the police and community groups, can take steps to act on some of the antisocial issues that have also been raised.”
An anti-violence walk, called Erskine Expects, will take place in the town on August 11.
Inspector Glass said: “I held a productive meeting with MSP Derek Mackay talking about Renfrewshire, partnerships, and how we can work together to address local community concerns.”
I have been assured police officers and vehicle units are on regular patrol