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  4. Crime figures remain low despite non-Covid rise

Crime figures remain low despite non-Covid rise

22nd November 2022 | criminal law | Criminal legal aid

Recorded crime in Scotland remained at a comparatively low level in the year ending September 2022, though the figures show a rise in non-Covid related offending, according to official statistics released today.

Police recorded 287,374 crimes in the year ending 30 September, 3% lower than the 297,712 crimes recorded in the year ending September 2021, and 4% below the 298,780 for the year ending September 2018.

The latest fall was driven by a reduction in crimes recorded under coronavirus related legislation (from 19,861 to 36). All other crimes collectively increased by 3%.

Non-sexual crimes of violence, at 69,353, were 8% higher than in the previous year, and 5% higher than in 2018; sexual crimes (14,838) were respectively 6% and 10% higher than in those same periods.

Crimes of dishonesty (100,246) were 12% higher compared to the year ending September 2021, but 10% lower compared to the year ending September 2018. Damage and reckless behaviour (44,428) were 1% higher than the previous year, but 10% lower than in 2018.

Crimes against society (58,473), which includes weapons, drugs and crimes against public justice, were down by 12% on the previous year, but 1% higher than in 2018.

Separately, the number of offences recorded by the police in Scotland in the year ending September 2022 was 172,657, 7% lower than the 185,863 for the previous 12 months, and 9% lower than the 2018 figure.

Justice Secretary Keith Brown commented: "The latest figures today show Scotland continues to be a safe place to live. Recorded crime is at one of the lowest levels seen since 1974, and below pre-pandemic levels, meaning the vast majority of people do not experience crime.

"While there are fewer victims compared to 2007, we continue to strengthen support for those who experience crime and to promote work to reduce reoffending. This includes proposals to introduce an independent Victims’ Commissioner, making sure victims’ voices are heard and placing women and children at the heart of delivery."

Find the full figures here.

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