Crime in Grampian at lowest level in nine years

CRIME rates in Grampian have fallen to their lowest level in almost a decade, according to new figures.

Violent offences in 2010/11 fell by 21.6 per cent compared to the previous year - a nine-year low.

That includes a 15.8 per cent reduction in robberies and a 13.5 per cent reduction in serious assault charges.

Vandalism is also at its lowest level in nine years, with the recorded figure of 5,935 almost 27 per cent below the recorded figure in 2003.

Chief Constable Colin McKerracher said: “These results are obviously extremely encouraging and once again highlight the value of our local policing teams to the communities of Grampian.

“The presence of officers within the community has helped prevent and detect offences within their communities and this is clearly reflected in the latest figures. It has also allowed us to work more closely with the public and our partners across the North East in dealing with the local issues that matter most.

“As we move towards a single Scottish police force, the excellent progress that we have made year after year will be our legacy.”

Councillor Ron McKail, convener of the Grampian Joint Police Board, added: “I very much welcome this report, which shows that Grampian Police is driving down crime rates right across the region.

“As Scotland moves towards a single police force, it is essential that this progress and hard work continues and that the focus on sustainable local policing continues. I know from my own constituents that there is an increased public confidence over the last few years and these figures will only help to increase that.”