Rise in online crime is a concern
Crime has dropped across Lanarkshire by more than 2670 fewer incidents according to figures released by Police Scotland today.
However, online crime has seen a rise of more than 60 per cent since 2018/2019.
Serious assaults are down by more than 30 across the region and there were six fewer homicides.
The Police Scotland figures showed 167 fewer incidents of housebreakings, with crimes involving the use of offensive or bladedweaponsdownbymore than 90.
Recorded incidents of breach of the peace (which includes stalking) are also down by 577 against the same period last year.
However, indecent sexual assault is up by 36 and there were 49moreincidentsofcommon assault.
Police Scotland’s Performance Report also describes how recorded crime for crime types that typically contain an‘online element’– including fraud, threats and extortion, communicationsandimage offences – has increased by more than 60 per cent.
Divisional Commander, Chief Superintendent AlanWaddell, told theWishaw Press:“These latest statistics show the changing policing needs of Lanarkshire’s communities and will form the basis of localised policing plans to address priority areas.
“Online crime is still prevalent across the country and, locally, we have seen 151 more crimes of fraud which our cyber strategy will help us address as well as other crimes being committed in the virtual world.
“As we head into the festive season our communities can expect to see greater visibility of officers on foot and mobile patrol and I hope the return of resources to the division will help strengthen public reassurance.”
The report is published today and was presented to the Scottish Police Authority Policing Performance Committee last Thursday.
It will show the demand and challenges experienced in the contact, command and control division which has led to increased 101 average answer times as emergency 999 calls continue to be prioritised.
Measureshavebeen introduced to manage the ongoinghighdemandonthe non-emergency 101 service including changes to overtime payments for service centre staff.
It is anticipated these changes will increase uptake of overtime and further support the ability to managepeaksindemand.