Hard line on knife crime works

Published on Thursday 7 July 2011 16:23

TOUGH policies on tackling knife crime laid down in 2006 are still relevant today, according to a new report.

The Inspectorate of Prosecution in Scotland (IPS) published a document examining how the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service implements the hard line policies introduced five years ago.

New guidance was issued to police and prosecutors in 2006 after a review of knife crime procedures by then Lord Advocate Colin Boyd.

Anyone caught carrying a knife was to be arrested and held in custody, and bail would be opposed if there was a previous conviction for possessing or using a knife or for violence.

In cases with a previous conviction for a similar offence there is also a presumption in favour of prosecution before a judge and jury.

The report looked at how 440 cases were dealt with, ranging in seriousness from knife possession to murder.

A large number of organisations and individuals were consulted, including those involved in the Violence Reduction Unit, charity Medics Against Violence and youth engagement initiative No Knives Better Lives.

The report states: "No-one with whom we consulted thought that the 2006 policy outlined by the Lord Advocate should be altered in its terms.

"Although much preventative work is ongoing, there was unanimous support for a continued firm response to those offenders committing crime with knives, whether carrying them in public or using them."

The report also highlighted good liaison work between fiscals and police in relation to gang problems in the Glasgow area.

Six technical recommendations were made regards to knife crime reporting and recording.