Agenda item 4 - Police Scotland Performance Update
North Ayrshire Council · 10 June 2024
Back to Police and Fire and Rescue Committee — 10 June 2024 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
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OFFICIAL—POLICE & PARTNERS 1 North Ayrshire Performance Summary Report - Q4 2023/24 Reporting Period: 01/04/2023 - 31/03/2024 Total Crime 12,354 Crimes 6.7% Incidents Recorded 38,659 -3.8%* 15.9% 1,771 Violence/Homicide Drug Supply 15.4% 81 Sexual Crime 9.4% 337 18.0%~ 151 Hate Crime ASB 7,233 Domestic Abuse -2.4%~ 1023 Acquisitive Crime 4.3% 2,634 Robbery -10.0% 36 Speeding 34.3% 629 Drink/Drug Driving 36.9% 267 Note: All percentage figures are based on the 5-year average with all data based on Management Information which may be subject to change. *5-yr Average is locally produced and not MI -19.2%* Serious Injury & Fatal Accidents^ 48/5 2.1%/-16.7% ^ Change from 2022/23, 5 year average not available ~Domestic Abuse and Hate Crime were previously counted on VPD, now on UNIFI therefore 5-yr average is an indication only
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OFFICIAL—POLICE & PARTNERS 2 Introduction This document has been compiled to look at the quarterly data available for North Ayrshire. The report is based on the areas of focus identified within the Local Policing Plan agreed with the Local Authority. The ‘Plan on a Page’ document is available on Page 3, this provides details of the areas Police Scotland have agreed to report on. The following list of contents provides an overview of the items included in this report: TOPIC SECTION PAGE Local Policing Plan Plan on a Page 3 Serious Crime Violence/Homicide Drug Supply Robbery 4 5 6 Violence Against Women and Girls Domestic Abuse Rape & Sexual Assault 7 8 Safer Communities ASB Hate Crimes Acquisitive Crime 9 10 11 Community Wellbeing 12 Road Safety Drink/Drug Driving, Speeding and Serious Injury & Fatal Accidents 13 Public Confidence User Satisfaction Survey Complaints 15 16 Glossary of Terms 17
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OFFICIAL—POLICE & PARTNERS 3
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OFFICIAL—POLICE & PARTNERS 4 SERIOUS CRIME—Violence/Homicide Local Action/Context: Overall violent crime has increased by 15.9% on the 5-year average. This increase is primarily due to the number of Minor Assaults both on Emergency workers and the public. Serious Assaults were showing lower figures until the final quarter of the year when the numbers have increased above those experienced in 2022/23, although remain below the 5-year average. Just over 12% of the Minor Assaults which are non-recent. One Attempt Murder remains undetected at this stage with 85.5% of the Serious Assaults detected at year end. The 15.9% Increase is up slightly from the previous quarter (13.7) Significantly we have had two Homicides in North Ayrshire both have been detected and proceedings are live at this time. Both very different in terms of circumstances and appropriate supports were provided to the victims families. In terms of the figures for serious assaults there have been 9 during the review period which is down 2 from the previous quarter. There are no particular patterns or trends relating to these and they are spread out across the North Ayrshire. 6 of the serious assaults are detected, the remaining crimes have victims who has disengaged from Police following the initial reports. No crimes of attempted murder during the review period. All significant crimes of violence are subject of close scrutiny and managed by the Criminal Investigation Department supported by Priority Policing and Locality teams. Source: Taken from Priority Management Performance for 2023/24
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OFFICIAL—POLICE & PARTNERS 5 SERIOUS CRIME—Drug Supply Local Action/Context: Drug supply charges in North Ayrshire noted an increase over the last year. Charges are up 15.4% on the 5-year average for Supplying Drugs, Cannabis Cultivations have remained the same for the 5- year average, but are up almost 31% on last year. Proactivity remains the main focus and means by which these charges are obtained. Identifying any real patterns to where these crimes are taking place requires the combined work of local officers and Divisional staff, building on the Community Intelligence provided by North Ayrshire residents, community groups or via Crimestoppers. The positive increase in supply charges is welcomed and is reflective of the significant work being undertaken within North Ayrshire by our Local Intelligence officer, Intelligence Development Unit and our Proactive Policing team. Information and intelligence gleaned from the community via our locality and response officers are the building blocks to identify and target those who supply high harm commodity within our communities. An example of good work from the reporting period include – In March 2024, officers from North Ayrshire Locality Policing Team searched a property in Irvine. During this search they recovered a quantity of Diazepam, Cocaine and Diamorphine with street value of over £6000 and a quantity of cash was also seized under Proceeds of Crime Act. Four persons were arrested and charged with being concerned in the supply of controlled drugs. The above example is part of a recent trend where we have seen Glasgow based drug dealers setting up in North Ayrshire where they identify premises within residential estates to use as a base for their drug supply. Source: Taken from Priority Management Performance for 2023/24
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OFFICIAL—POLICE & PARTNERS 6 SERIOUS CRIME—Robbery Local Action/Context: The number of reported Robbery type crimes decreased in 2023/24 from 38 the previous year to 36. This is also below the 5-year average of 40. The table highlights the marked increase in crimes in March 2024. The detection rate at year end was 63.9% which is lower than the previous year. The Rivergate Shopping area remained the only repeat location with two crimes taking place at this locus. Twelve of these crimes have taken place within the home, with a physical assault being most commonly used against the victim. Cash remains the most commonly acquired item and the victim knew the offender, in some capacity, in at least 64% of robberies so far this year. The reduction in crimes of robbery has continued into the 4th quarter which is welcome and reflects significant commitment in terms of Policing our town centres. Robbery crimes are always a key priority for North Ayrshire where each report is subject to daily review by the Area Command Team and CID, this ensures that crimes are prioritised , victims supported and offenders identified and arrested at the earliest opportunity. Our Town Centre Officers are a constant visible presence within retail areas with a focus in and around the Rivergate Centre in Irvine, Locality and Priority Policing Teams proactively enforce bail conditions for robbery offenders and immediately target warrants issued for violent offenders. Whilst being committed to robust enforcement we tackle the underlying factors that lead offenders to commit such crimes by working closely with partners to ensure appropriate supports are put in place that could reduce offending. Community Wellbeing Team are key to providing this pathway for supports. Source: Taken from Priority Management Performance for 2023/24
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OFFICIAL—POLICE & PARTNERS 7 VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN & GIRLS—Domestic Abuse Local Action/Context: Domestic crimes showed an overall increase when compared with 2022/23 (up 5.6%) however at year end the figures were slightly down on the 5-year average (down 2.4%). The chart opposite shows that the majority of months have recorded an increase on the numbers recorded last year. There are a number of multiple reports, whereby the same victim has reported multiple crimes against the same offender, this obviously impacts the overall numbers. During the months of January to March there has been a slight increase in the number of reported Domestic incident to 441 from 429, the previous quarter. The figures for the same quarter during 2023 were 394. DSDAS referrals for the quarter have also increased, with 33 applications having been received compared to the previous quarter of 30. This has also increased from the previous year where there were 28 applications. 60 victims of Domestic Abuse were referred to Marac between January and March in comparison to 53 from October to December 2023. These figures have steadily increased each year as expected after the introduction of MARAC in August 2022. Also, during the quarter there have been a further 2 nominals identified as MATAC targets and investigations are ongoing into serious sexual offences against several previous partners. During this period, the DAIU have been involved in numerous significant investigations, most notably a high-risk serial perpetrator has been arrested and charged with 5 x S1 SOSA 2009 and 1 x Rape of two previous partners with ongoing enquiries with other partners progressing. Source: Taken from Available Data on iVPD
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OFFICIAL—POLICE & PARTNERS 8 VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN & GIRLS—Rape & Sexual Assault Local Action/Context: Examination of the Rape crimes shows a slight dip in the numbers compared with 2022/23 (63 at year end compared with 67 the previous year), however the figures remained above the 5-year average (n=52). It is notable that a total of 27 of these were non-recent crimes of which 14 were Domestic related. Sexual Assaults have noted a marked increase on both 2022/23 and the 5-year average. Of the 94 reported crimes, 32 were non-recent, and at least 14 of all sexual assaults were domestic related. As previously stated there are a number of multiple reports whereby one victim is reporting a number of crimes against the same individual. This includes 10 crimes involving the same victim and offender and another where 9 crimes have been reported by one victim against the same offender. This is impacting on the overall figures. Non Recent Investigations have their own investigative challenges such as no CCTV, forensic opportunities and occasionally witnesses being deceased. All are SIO led by a Detective Inspector who is dedicated to these investigations. Demanding role as SOLO (Sexual Offences Liaison Officer) supporting victims from the initial report through the Investigation. Strong partnership working in North Ayrshire with Rape Crisis and Womans Aid– positive first step to gaining trust and positive Police engagement, confidence of partners and victims increasing through MARAC Feedback from victims is overwhelmingly positive which now includes an anonymous feedback function for victims of domestic and sexual crimes. Source: Taken from Priority Management Performance for 2023/24
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OFFICIAL—POLICE & PARTNERS 9 SAFER COMMUNITIES—Antisocial Behaviour Local Action/Context: Anti-social behaviour (ASB) in general has shown a slight increase this past year when compared to the previous year (up 3.5%), however there has been a marked reduction on the 5-year average (down 19.2%). The chart opposite shows each quarter and highlights that the highest proportion of incidents are recorded in the summer months (July to September) whilst the winter months (January to March) have recorded the lowest numbers during the 2023/24 period. ASB incidents involving youths accounted for just under 11%. Note: The data included here now looks at all public reported ASB and therefore differs from what was previously reported. The ASB Fixed Penalty Notices data for North Ayrshire is currently showing as being very low and this may be due to some recording issues. This will be investigated further with a view to providing more information in due course. ASB continues to be targeted across North Ayrshire by our dedicated teams, focussing on the areas that have a direct impact to the wellbeing of our local communities. Daily scrutiny, governance and partnership working, including Prevention First Group address emerging issues such as derelict buildings, off road bikes, jet ski’s and hot spot areas timeously. ASB involving Off Road Bikes/Quads in areas such as Ardeer, Stevenston and Kilwinning reduced dramatically over the winter months but continue to cause concern. Intelligence led action plans continue with Quad Bikes playing a key role. This has resulted in further detections, seizures and a number of enquiries remaining live with positive lines of enquiry following partnership working and review of CCTV. Over the reporting period and following successful initiatives on the rail network, initiatives have been expanded to include bus routes, with officers working closely with Stagecoach, Scotrail and BTP in response to reported ASB on the network and within towns throughout North Ayrshire. Each weekend officers patrol within Town Centre areas, conducting proactive high visible visits to licensed premises, providing public reassurance and support to night time economy workers. Throughout the period local officers undertook 383 visits to licensed premises. (353 previous quarter) Our Anti Social Behaviour Liaison Officer continues to highlight incidents to the council. 60 ASBIT cases were opened within the reporting period, resulting in 1 breach of ASBO reported to COPFS, 1 tenancy converted to Scottish Short Secure Tenancy and 14 notices of proceedings issued. Source: Taken from Priority Management Performance for 2023/24
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OFFICIAL—POLICE & PARTNERS 10 SAFER COMMUNITIES—Hate Crime Local Action/Context: Hate crime across North Ayrshire recorded a marked increase when compared to the same period in 2022/23 (n= 150 compared with n=115) and the 5-year average (n=128.8). The chart opposite highlights the fact that Racial crimes continue to show marked increases. The majority of these have involved members of the public rather than Police Officers. Seven repeat victims have been identified across the year being examined, four were subjected to racial abuse (including one Syrian male) and three were the victim of transphobic/homophobic crimes. There are nine repeat locations identified three of which relate to the repeat complainers. Police stations have also been highlighted as repeat locations for these crimes. All Hate crime is thoroughly investigated and support is offered to the victim through the Local Authority Liaison and Preventions and Interventions officer. 7 Repeat victims have been victim of abuse, these incorporate a neighbour dispute, ex partner being the suspect and a customer. One secondary school in North Ayrshire is noted as being a repeat location throughout the year and Woodlands View hospital has also been a repeat location. 2 retail premises have been identified as repeat locations and one restaurant is also included, the remainder taking place within private dwellings. Work continues to with Campus officers in the school environment to educate young persons in relation to any hate crime and encourages young persons to report this to police or pastoral staff within schools. Local Authority Liaison Officer continues to work with Syrian and Ukranian families within North Ayrshire to highlight reporting around any hate crime or offences. This work also supports the NAC resettlement teams with engagement with the refugees and supports safeguarding them against racial abuse. Source: Taken from Available Data on iVPD
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OFFICIAL—POLICE & PARTNERS 11 SAFER COMMUNITIES—Acquisitive Crime Local Action/Context: From the table opposite it is evident that the majority of acquisitive type crimes continue to show increases when compared with the previous year but decreases when compared with the 5-year average. The exceptions to this are Fraud and Shoplifting which are both on an upward trend. Shoplifting crimes have been on the increase in recent years and this year has experienced the biggest increase year on year—up 2.1% on the previous year and 53.8% on the 5-year average. Alcohol continues to be one of the main items being stolen with some individuals/teams stealing in bulk. The detection rate for Shoplifting remains fairly static at just over 70%, which is slightly above the previous year and slightly below the 5-year average. Fraud crimes continue to increase year on year and are now at their highest level in at least six years. Detection rates remain fairly low at 18.6%, but this is primarily due to the difficulties of identifying those responsible when the largest proportion of these crimes involve the use of the internet. Vehicle crime is down from the previous year to date. Prevention work continues to promote vehicle security and the use of new technology ensures that vehicle owners are less likely to have their vehicle stolen or broken into. The current year to date has seen an increase in the number of theft by shoplifting crimes in the sub division. A dedicated retail crime team has a focus on the crimes of shoplifting in the Three Towns area to detect crimes when they occur and to work with retailers to prevent crimes taking place. The team will focus on working with retailers across the three main supermarkets to expedite the investigation and bring those responsible to justice. Officer engage with the retailers to share information in relation to thefts, provide details on items most likely to be targeted and to ensure security officers within retailers are aware of any current trends and MO’s of those involved in this type of criminality. North Ayrshire has been subject of organised criminal teams who are operating throughout the country. And the use of police bail undertaking or court ordered bail conditions are one method of protecting retailers across North Ayrshire. Fraud crimes remain on an upward trend, this is in line with the rest of the UK. A new Cyber enabled Investigation Team has been established to assist officers in investigating online and cyber enabled frauds. Prevention and Intervention remains the focus to ensure that vulnerable members of the community are not ‘scammed’ or targeted by those criminals obtaining monies from victims. Work alongside the banks and Post office network continue to ensure the Banking Protocol remains at the forefront in preventing individuals from becoming a victim of these types of fraud. Source: Taken from Priority Management Performance for 2023/24
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OFFICIAL—POLICE & PARTNERS 12 COMMUNITY WELLBEING Local Action/Context: Drugs Harm CCWU staff also collaborated with Turning Point, visiting children's homes to educate young people on the impacts of drugs and alcohol through sessions that featured lived experiences. These presentations had a profound effect, helping young people understand the severe consequences of substance abuse. Furthermore, CWU estab- lished a close working relationship with Divisional Intelligence Officers, creating a direct link to the Intelligence Development Unit. This collaboration has improved intelli- gence gathering, leading to more effective interventions. Their efforts have not only heightened awareness and prevention of drug-related harm but also provided critical support to those affected, thereby reducing the demand on police resources, and enhancing community safety. Community Justice CWU's role in community justice is demonstrated through their active participation in various professional and partnership meetings. They attended a clinical review for one of North Ayrshire's most vulnerable individuals, providing updates and emphasising the impact on police resources. CWU's involvement in the Partnership Clinic at Caley Court, led by the Alcohol and Drug Partnership (ADP), facilitates a coordinated response to individuals in crisis. These monthly meetings allow for comprehensive discussions on individuals who require support, ensuring that community resources are effectively utilised. CWU also participated in a professionals' meeting to address actions on problematic individuals within the community, helping to make informed decisions that balance the needs of the community with available support services. Additionally, CWU's partnership with Women's Aid and other agencies has led to joint visits and coordinated support for vulnerable women, particularly those affected by domestic abuse. This collaborative approach has proven effective in providing necessary assistance and reducing the strain on police resources, ultimately contributing to a safer and more just community environment. Mental Health Mental health support is a significant focus for CWU. They attended an Understanding Domestic Abuse course by Women's Aid, gaining valuable insights into the mental health impacts of domestic abuse and networking with other agencies. Their engagement with the Equal Programme, which supports individuals with disabilities and long -term health conditions, has resulted in several successful referrals. These referrals have helped vulnerable individuals gain employment and stability. CWU's continuous involvement in the Partnership Clinic at Caley Court ensures that they remain informed about the mental health needs of the community and can advocate for appropri- ate support. By working closely with various mental health and addiction services, CWU plays a crucial role in addressing the mental health challenges within the commu- nity, ensuring that individuals receive the necessary support and interventions to improve their quality of life. Youth Engagement CWU has been proactive in engaging with young people to divert them from criminal activities and build positive relationships. They regularly visit children's homes to interact with young residents and educate them about the consequences of crime. This engagement has led to two young people joining the Police Scotland Youth Volun- teers (PSYV) programme, fostering a more positive view of the police. At the Spark of Genius campus, CWU conducted "meet the police" presentations aimed at building a positive relationship with students who historically had negative perceptions of the police. These efforts have been well-received and highlighted on the Spark of Genius social media page. CWU also promote the Philomena protocol and the not-at-home policy in children's units, significantly reducing reports of young people being report- ed missing.
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OFFICIAL—POLICE & PARTNERS 13 ROAD SAFETY Local Action/Context: There has been an increase in both Speeding offences and Drink/Drug Offences within North Ayrshire. However, this is likely to be due to increased pro-activity across the area to ensure road users are driving appropriately and safely. Detections for Drink/Drug Driving and Speeding are currently 91.4% and 99.8% respectively. There are likely to still be some samples going through the forensic process for drink/drug driving which will be why this figure is currently below the 5-year average. In terms of Serious and Fatal Road Accidents —there were five Fatal Accidents in 2023/24 compared with six the previous year. However there have been 48 people seriously injured, which is an increase of one compared to 2022/23 and includes six children. Roads Policing for Ayrshire Division are based at Irvine Police Office and provide an excellent service to the communities of North Ayrshire. We are seeing a significant increase in detections for Drug Driving, the drug wipes used test for Cannabis and Cocaine and we continue to see increasing numbers of people failing the tests. The proactivity in this space is very welcome, Roads Policing officers target drug supply routes and serious and organised criminals that utilise the road network working alongside Locality , PPT and Criminal Investigation Department. Excellent disruption towards designated Serious and Organised Crime group operating within North Ayrshire with a number of key nominals failing roadside drug wipes. Roads Policing continue to support a number of national campaigns around speed awareness and motorcycle safety. Source: Taken from Priority Management Performance for 2023/24
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OFFICIAL—POLICE & PARTNERS 14 PUBLIC CONFIDENCE—Survey Information User Experience - Current Position It should also be noted that the ‘Feeling adequately informed’ question changed in 2022/23 and only applies to those who stated they expected to be kept informed. This data can now be supplied down to Local Authority level. Your Survey Local Action/Context: Your Police Survey remains open for all police and members of the public to provide their views on Policing in the local community. Local officers continue to promote engagement with Your Police Survey at all events and community engagements with regular broadcasts on media and social media platforms. How safe do you feel in your local area? Total Respondents Very Safe Fairly Safe Total North 19.86% 55.61% 75.47% 579 Concern about Crime Total Respondents Increased a Lot Increased a Little Total North 22.47% 26.83% 49.3% 579 Questions YTD Force YTD Female Male Blank/ Other Number of Respondents 383 15,449 173 85 125 Ease of Contact? (% Easy and Very Easy) 74% 73% 78% 73% 68% Being provided with the appropriate response? (% Yes) 67% 64% 73% 67% 58% Feeling adequately informed about progress made with your report (% Yes) 54% 50% 55% 51% 55% Overall Satisfaction? (% Satisfied or Very Satisfied) 72% 69% 79% 68% 66%
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OFFICIAL—POLICE & PARTNERS 15 PUBLIC CONFIDENCE—Complaints Against the Police NOTE : The information in these tables covers the period 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024. Complaint Cases & Allegations Received Breakdown of Case Categories Breakdown of Allegations Breakdown of Quality of Service Allegation Types TOTAL COMPLAINT CASES RECEIVED TOTAL NUMBER OF ALLEGATIONS RECEIVED YTD LYTD % CHANGE YTD LYTD % CHANGE U DIVISION 409 397 3.0% 558 631 -11.6% North Ayrshire 126 139 -9.4% 167 208 -19.7% FLR (Early Resolution) FLR PSD (NCARU) FLR (Spec or PSD) Criminal Complaint Non Criminal (not FLR) Abandoned Withdrawn Ongoing (NCARU) Not Relevant Complaint U DIVISION 1 188 13 26 113 44 24 0 0 North Ayrshire 1 59 5 12 31 10 8 0 0 Assault Corrupt Practice Discriminatory Behaviour Excessive Force Incivility Irregularity in Procedure Neglect of Duty Oppressive Conduct/ Harassment Other - Criminal Other - Non Criminal Traffic Irregularity / Offence Unlawful/ Unnecessary Arrest or Detention U DIVISION 29 0 8 30 76 198 3 13 7 3 6 8 North Ayrshire 9 0 2 5 16 66 0 4 6 2 0 1 Policy/Procedure Service Delivery Service Outcome U DIVISION 39 45 93 North Ayrshire 8 18 30
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OFFICIAL—POLICE & PARTNERS 16 GLOSSARY OF TERMS Acronym Details ASB Anti-Social Behaviour ASBIT Anti-Social Behaviour Investigation Team CWU Community Wellbeing Unit CYTD Current Year to Date DAIU Domestic Abuse Investigation Unit DAST Domestic Abuse Safeguarding Team DRD Drug Related Deaths DSDAS Disclosure Scheme for Domestic Abuse Scotland NAC North Ayrshire Council FLR Front Line Resolution GIRFEC Getting It Right For Every Child HMP Her Majesty's Prison LPP Local Policing Plan LPT Local Policing Team LYTD Last Year to Date MARAC Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conference NCARU National Complaints and Resolution Unit Non-Rec Non Recent (over one year from incident occurring) PACT Pro-Active Crime Team PSOS Police Service of Scotland PYTD Previous Year to Date QoS Quality of Service (relates to complaints) RADAR Rapid Access to Drug and Alcohol Recovery SARC Sexual Assault Referral Centre ScOMIS Scottish Operational and Management Information System SFRS Scottish Fire and Rescue Service SWD Social Work Department VAWG Violence Against Women and Girls YTD Year to Date