Proceeds of crime assets code put out to consultation

A new code of practice on police searches for assets related to criminal activity has been published for consultation ahead of legislation taking effect in the spring.

The code builds on new legislation, the Criminal Finances Act 2017, which amends the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 and redefines what can be seized as a criminal asset. It will ensure that items that can be seized as being proceeds of crime can include precious stones, stamps, watches and betting slips.

It replaces an existing code on searches for cash and includes a revised definition of cash. 

Cabinet Secretary for Justice Michael Matheson commented: “More than £4,000,000 has aleady been recovered by the Crown Office and the Civil Recovery Unit this year and we will continue to disrupt the activities of criminals across Scotland.

“The draft code of practice will give Police Scotland officers clear guidance as they search for and identify valuable items which, while not simply being a sum of cash, are clearly assets purchased by means of criminal gain.

“Whether it’s a gold necklace, a diamond ring or a high-end watch, I am determined that crime will not pay and we will continue to put these ill-gotten gains back into communities through the Cashback programme. There will be no let-up in tackling organised crime and the harm it causes.”

Click here to access the consultation. The deadline for responses is 13 December 2017.