Moray housebreaking increase amid crime drop

Police have launched an appeal for information on the attack. Picture: Ian Georgeson

Over the same period, assaults in the Moray area have fallen by four per cent and the number of recorded sex offences has dropped by eight per cent.

The figures also show that theft by housebreaking has increased by 24 per cent while the detection rate has increased by 15 per cent.

Commenting on the new statistics, Moray Division Chief Inspector Willie Findlay said the figures reflected the dedication and

professionalism of the police officers and staff in the area. He said: “The performance report highlights a number of positive

outcomes for the Moray area which is to a large extent down to the positive relationships which have been built up with partner organisations including the Moray Council, NHS Grampian and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service as well as our communities.

“Our focus is on keeping people safe and we have listened to the concerns of our communities and acted upon them. For example vandalism was an area of concern and due to initiatives focused on tackling the issue and anti-social behaviour we have seen a 17 per cent reduction.”

He continued: “”Although we have seen a slight increase in the number of thefts in the area our detection rate has also increased. The rise in the number of reported incidents of domestic abuse is down to the support and encouragement victims or those who know victims are being given in coming forward.”

Chief Superintendent Mark McLaren, Divisional Commander for Aberdeenshire and Moray, said: “The performance report highlights a number of positive outcomes for the Moray area since the formation of Police Scotland on 1 April. However, we will not become complacent and our primary focus is to maintain and increase the rate of crime detection throughout Moray.

“Thefts from vehicles and property remain a concern, and we have launched several campaigns urging residents to lock their doors and leave their property secure when unattended.

“Overall, the detection rate for crimes of dishonesty is steadily improving and our ongoing focus within the division is to reduce the number of thefts recorded and continue to see an increase in the detection rate.

“Our message is clear – we will continue to listen to the concerns of our communities and will act upon them.”