| Chief Constable Kevin Mathieson was discussing the latest crime statistics, which show that break-ins to homes were slashed by a fifth last year — from 911 to 725 — at Tayside Police Joint Board.
The detection rate also improved by 3.8% — although it remains less than one in three.
There were also considerable reductions in car crime and vandalism, with Mr Mathieson saying the improvements were due to the force’s “committed and dedicated” workforce.
However, the force did post a rise in reported incidents of violent crime, which went up 14% to 696.
In his first annual report as Chief Constable, Mr Mathieson revealed there were a total of 26,047 crimes last year, compared to 26,904 in 2007/08.
The detection rate had also increased overall, with 15,199 of the cases having been cleared up.
“In performance terms, this has been an outstanding year for Tayside Police, with overall recorded crime down to the lowest levels for at least a decade, and our detection rates similarly the highest for a decade,” he said.
“The communities which make up the Tayside Police area are now experiencing the lowest levels of domestic housebreaking, vandalism and car crime for a generation, and within these decreasing crime groups we are arresting and reporting an increased percentage of offenders.
“In addition to this, we have also responded positively to a number of homicide and other major inquiries this year, and have successfully concluded each one.”
Of 19 key performance indicators, the force had achieved its target in 16 of the areas.
It only failed in the number of violent crimes recorded, the detection rate of such crimes and the preparation of reports to the Children’s Reporter.
“This success is the product of a very committed and skilled workforce — both police officers and police staff — combined with the tremendous support and assistance we receive from Tayside Joint Police Board, our partners and members of the public,” said Mr Mathieson.
“Without that support, we could not operate nearly as effectively, and I am grateful for all the assistance we have received in seeking to make communities safer.”
The force has three main objectives — to make communities safer, increase public trust and confidence and improve the efficiency of the organisation.
Angus Council leader Bob Myles praised the force’s performance in these areas at today’s meeting.
“I wish to add my congratulations to all the police officers on what is an excellent report,” he said.
“My understanding is that this is one of the best forces in Scotland, if not Britain, and I’m happy to sing its praises.
“We can’t be complacent but, without a doubt, it was a very pleasant experience reading through this report.”
Mr Mathieson added that previous problems with the force’s call handling performance had now been dealt with.
He said, “I am pleased to say that those issues have all been resolved and we are now consistently meeting and exceeding national standards.” |
