Crime across Scotland has fallen over 25% during lockdown
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Recorded crime has dropped by around a quarter since measures to support physical distancing came into effect, early indications suggest.
Serious assaults have reduced by around 40 per cent, between Tuesday, March 24, and Sunday, April, 19 compared to the same time last year.
Common assault has fallen by just over a quarter, while housebreakings are down around 30 per cent.
The provisional crime figures, which may be subject to adjustment, also suggest that breach of the peace has fallen by over a half, while possession of drugs is down by around a fifth.
Fraud, however, has increased by over 10 per cent and there is some evidence that criminals are specifically exploiting the coronavirus emergency to commit offences.
Meanwhile 'public nuisance', generally relating to reporting of people failing to adhere to physical distancing guidance, now account for around a fifth of all incidents.
Noise incidents have also increased significantly, anecdotally related to the increased time people are spending at home.
Fiona Taylor, Police Scotland's Deputy Chief Constable, said: "These early indications suggest that there are fewer crimes committed on the streets and in our town and city centres because the overwhelming majority of people are stepping forward to do their part to protect the NHS and save lives.
"I would like to thank people for their continued co-operation and support as Police Scotland carries out our role in supporting the national effort to make the changes needed to combat the spread of coronavirus.
"The significant changes that everyone is having to adjust to are undoubtedly having an effect on the nature and level of demand on policing.
"While decreases in assaults and housebreaking are to be welcomed, this information covers a relatively short period of time and care must be taken to avoid assumptions about trends.
"We are seeing, for example, a slight decrease in domestic abuse incidents but are acutely aware this may not reflect what is happening behind closed doors.
"We know that people don’t always report abuse immediately.
"For some, this period of physical distancing and isolation may expose them to a greater risk of abuse, harm and neglect.
"We have been using our social media channels to highlight our concern and raise awareness in communities.
"We want people to feel safe and we want to prevent harm by identifying those who may be at risk, and putting in place measures that will help keep them safe.
"There will be no change to how we respond to child protection issues.
"Protecting children and reducing harm remains a priority for Police Scotland.”
DCC Taylor added: "It could be months or years before we have a clear picture of the effect that physical distancing requirements have had on some crime categories in Scotland.
"What I want to emphasise is that we remain committed to making sure that every one of Scotland’s citizens is looked after.
"Our primary responsibility is to prevent crime.
"We strive to leave victims of crime feeling safe and will continue to make sure that those living alone, the elderly and the vulnerable are given full protection.
"If you need the help of the police, please contact us."
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