Agenda Document Pack - Police and Fire and Rescue Board - 26/08/2024
Midlothian Council · 26 August 2024
Back to Police and Fire and Rescue Board — 26 August 2024 and its agenda
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Notice of Meeting and Agenda Police and Fire and Rescue Board Venue: Council Chambers/Hybrid, Midlothian House, Dalkeith, EH22 1DN Date: Monday, 26 August 2024 Time: 11:00 Executive Director : Place Contact: Clerk Name: Democratic Services Clerk Telephone: Clerk Email: democratic.services@midlothian.gov.uk Further Information: This is a meeting which is open to members of the public. Privacy notice: Please note that this meeting may be recorded. The recording may be publicly available following the meeting. If you would like to know how Midlothian Council collects, uses and shares your personal information, please visit our website: www.midlothian.gov.uk Page 1 of 104
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1 Welcome, Introductions and Apologies 2 Order of Business Including notice of new business submitted as urgent for consideration at the end of the meeting. 3 Declaration of Interest Members should declare any financial and non-financial interests they have in the items of business for consideration, identifying the relevant agenda item and the nature of their interest. 4 Minute of Previous Meeting 4.1 Minute of meeting of 27 May 2024 submitted for approval 3 - 10 4.2 Action Log 11 - 12 5 Public Reports 5.1 Police Scotland Q4 Performance Report 2023/24 13 - 46 5.2 Police Scotland Q1 Performance Report 2024/25 47 - 82 5.3 Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Q1 Performance Report 2023/24 83 - 94 5.4 Protective Services Quarter 1 2024/25 Report 95 - 104 6 Private Reports No items for discussion 7 Date of Next Meeting The next meeting will be held on Monday 18 November 2024 at 11.00am Page 2 of 104
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Minute of Meeting Police and Fire and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No 4.1 Police and Fire and Rescue Board Date Time Venue Monday 27 May 2024 1.00pm Council Chambers/Hybrid Present: Councillor McKenzie (Chair) Councillor McEwan Councillor Smaill In Attendance: Midlothian Council Derek Oliver, Chief Officer Place Janet Ritchie Democratic Services Officer Hannah Forbes, Assistant Democratic Services Officer Police Scotland Jim Robertson, Chief Inspector Greg Banks, Superintendent David Rourke, Depute Local Commander Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Mark Landels, Group Commander Elliot Whitson, Station Commander for Prevention, Protection and Preparedness for Midlothian, East Lothian and Scottish Borders Page 3 of 104
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1. Welcome, Introductions and Apologies The Chair, Councillor McKenzie, welcomed everyone to the meeting of the Police and Fire and Rescue Board, advising that the meeting was open to the public and would be webcast live. Apologies were received from Councillor Alexander and Councillor Curran 2. Order of Business The order of business was as set out in the agenda previously circulated. 3. Declarations of interest No declarations of interest were intimated at this stage of the proceedings. 4. Minute of Previous Meeting The Minute of the Meeting held on 29 January 2024 was submitted and moved as a correct record by Councillor Smaill, seconded by Councillor McEwan. Actions from the previous Minutes: Mark Landels confirmed with regards to Item 6 – Tomorrow’s Driver this was on today’s agenda. Jim Robertson confirmed that with regards to Item 4 Police Scotland linked in with bus companies including LRT and the ownership of bus stops was unclear but the bus companies confirmed that they do not have any posters prepared and it was also confirmed that the responsibility of this did not sit with Police Scotland. Chief Officer Place confirmed that the ownership of bus stops was passed to the transport and network team. 5. Public Reports Agenda No. Report Title Presented by: 5.1 Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Quarter 4 ML Performance Report Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) Outline of report and summary of discussion Mark Landels, Area Commander introduced Elliot Whitson, Station Commander for Prevention, Protection and Preparedness and will speak in terms of any relevant information regarding reporting figures. Mark Landels, Area Commander introduced the report. The report provides information on the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s prevention, protection and operational response activities within Midlothian for Quarter 1 of 2024-25 (1 April 2024 – 30 June 2024) including information on the year-to-date figures and highlighted the salient points. The Area Commander highlighted the reduction in fire casualties and that there were no reported fire fatalities in this period and that the trend line for Midlothian was performing below the Scottish average and the Page 4 of 104
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East Service delivery that Midlothian forms part of. He further provided a brief update on each of the KPI’s as detailed in the report. In responding to a question raised with regards to fire risk and fire appliances, the Area Commander advised on the procedure for a risk assessment and alarm system set up independently and this will go through the contact centre and when an alarm rings the fire service will be contacted. He confirmed that although they are there to provide fire safety advice if requested the responsibility sits with the responsible person for the shop, building etc. On a follow up question regarding the monitoring of ensuring the correct and adequate fire equipment is in shops, restaurants etc, the Fire Service Officers advised on the process of fire safety inspections and what can be done when these premises are not compliant. A further question was also raised on the increasing use of lithium batteries and was this an added risk for the fire service. In responding the Area Commander noted that there were energy storage sites being built all over Scotland and although the Fire Service has no legal powers, they have been involved in the planning stage. He also advised on the correct disposal of lithium batteries and emphasised that these should not be disposed of at a waste management site. The Chief Officer Place advised on what they have in place to ensure that these are disposed of appropriately and that they were proactive in addressing this and advised on the service they are looking to put in place where residents can dispose of textiles and electrical appliances from their house. The Area Commander, Mark Landels advised on the retirement of Hilary Sangster and passed on her thanks to the Board. The Chair thanked the Fire Service for the report and expressed his thanks on behalf of the Board to Hilary Sangster and her input to the Police Fire and Rescue Board. Elliot Whitson Station Commander provided a brief update on the main sections of the Prevention, Protection & Preparedness Activities as contained within the report and highlighted some of the partnership working with schools and young people. The Station Commander also provided a brief outline of the Midlothian Road Safety Campaign, The Tomorrows Driver which is aimed at S6 students who are already driving or just about to be learning to drive and they will be support also by Police Scotland. The Chair commented positively on this campaign also going into Colleges. The Area Commander, Mark Landels advised that Dalkeith Fire Station experienced an event on 6 April when a tree fell on top of the roof of the station and the station was in risk of having to be evacuated and the implementation of business continuity plan would have reverted fire appliances moved to Dalkeith Police Station and although they did not have to go ahead he formally thanked Police Scotland and the Chief Inspector for making the offer for them to work at Dalkeith Police Station and highlighted the good partnership working the emergency services have. . The Area Commander also highlighted the live public consultation until 30 June – Shaping the future Service and it was confirmed that communication had been sent to the council and other agencies. Decision The Board noted the update. Page 5 of 104
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Agenda No. Report Title Presented by: 5.2 Protective Services Quarter 4 Report 2023/24 Chief Officer Place Outline of report and summary of discussion The Chief Officer Place introduced the Protective Services Quarter 4 report and provided an update on the Protective Services functions and highlighted the main sections contained within the report. The Chief Officer Place advised on the close working with Police and Fire colleagues with regards to the weather episodes and the significant rainfall in Midlothian. The Chief Officer also expressed his thanks to Hilary Sangster for the partnership working and wished her all the best on her retirement. The Chair thanked the Chief Officer Place for the report and opened it up to questions. In responding to a question regarding an increase in pavement parking the Chief Officer advised that activity was ongoing and will bring back further details on this. In responding to further comments, the Chief Officer provided clarity with regards to tobacco and vaping sales and the disposal of vapes. Also highlighted was the untidy area at the back of Jarnac Court and the Chief Officer Place explained the issues of inappropriate disposal of waste and advised on the engagement with local businesses and the monitoring of the fly tipping in this area. It was noted that the fly tipping will now be reported on a yearly basis and the Chief Officer advised on the level of engagement and investigation with the community and the reason why some of the numbers of fixed penalty notices are not higher. Councillor McEwan expressed his thanks on behalf of Elected Members on the work that Chief Officer and his team, the Police and Fire service in keeping roads open in Midlothian during the bad weather. Decision The Board noted the contents of the report. Agenda No. Report Title Presented by: 5.1 Police Scotland – MCAT Workshop Police Scotland Outline of report and summary of discussion The Chair explained that due to the issue with data embargo the Police Scotland data could not be provided for this meeting and that for today’s agenda it would focus on the work done by the MCAT team. Jim Robertson, Chief Inspector that he was accompanied today with Superintendent Greg Banks and Police Inspector David Rourke who will be Page 6 of 104
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presenting with him today and advised that they will provide a ‘deep dive’ on MCAT performance over the last 3 months. Superintendent Greg Banks in introducing himself provided a brief overview of his role and also expressed Police Scottland’s’ gratitude to Hilary Sangster for her long-standing contribution and close partnership working and wished her all the best for her retirement. Chief Inspector, Jim Robertson advised that the MCAT vision remains the same to provide a positive impact on the quality of life within Midlothian and seek to reduce anti-social behaviour through prevention, disruption and enforcement. This focusses on the 6 key activities – high visibility patrols focussing on offenders including those involved in anti-social behaviour and serious and organised crime; target and engage with youths; prioritise licensed premises’; support partners and colleagues and focussing on road safety. The Chief Inspector then introduced his depute Police Inspector David Rourke who had day to day ownership and line management of MCAT. Police Inspector, David Rourke provided an update on the operations in Midlothian which included work in partnership with Lothian Buses to reduce the anti-social behaviour on the buses and reported that there has been a reduction in this behaviour on the buses, but they will step up the activity over the summer holidays to ensure this continues. He also provided a brief overview of the Operation Jarnaca which is led by the Community action team and links into several of the priorities including crimes of dishonesty, road safety, reducing reoffending and drugs misuse. This is a joint operation involving Roads Policing, DVSA, DWP and Trading Standards from the local authority and provided details of the scale and effectiveness of this operation. Another long running Operation was in response to reducing reoffending and crimes of dishonesty and provided an update on the work with community councils to find out their three priorities and the top priority was theft by housebreaking and provided the outcome of the work done on this. Lastly, he provided an update on Operation Jewel which is linked to reducing antisocial behaviour and improving road safety and advised that this has been successful in Midlothian, and they have seized 25 off road motorcycles and provided a brief update on how this issue had been tackled and the response from other areas in replicating how this was tackled. He further advised that there had been a big reduction in calls relating to off road motorcycles. The Chief Inspector, Jim Robertson also provided an update on the project taking place to raise awareness of sharing spaces safely with cyclists on footpaths, addressing cycling at excessive speed and engaging with young people in Midlothian to raise this awareness. The Chief Inspector further advised as part of these plans they will also be stopping drivers who drive to close to cyclists on the road and raising the awareness of sharing spaces with road drivers and cyclists and horses. He further advised that the mounted section will be coming to Midlothian in the coming weeks to target the hotspots where drivers have been noted going to close to horses. This will also be highlighted on Social Media to raise this awareness across Midlothian. Page 7 of 104
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Following the presentation by Police Scotland a discussion took place with regards anti-social behaviour and where surveillance has been useful. The Chief Officer advised on the CCTV upgrade and that a report on this will be coming forward in the next couple of weeks. In responding to a question raised with the issues of cameras in train stations and not always identifying the person when damage has been done to vehicles and the Chief Inspector, Jim Robertson advised on the limitations of fixed cameras and the advantage of mobile cameras. He also advised on the CCTV uplift and the technology coming to Midlothian which will be able to identify individuals and that Police Scotland will be working with the Council Officers in identifying the best locations for these cameras. The Superintendent, Greg Banks also provided further information on how these systems can be more flexible and how CCTV has progressed. It was also noted that ring doorbells are a huge benefit to Police Scotland and the Chief Inspector advised that Police Scotland are always looking to use new technology and techniques and advised on the specialist team at Fettes which have been trained to use drones and the benefit of using this service in Midlothian. In responding to a further question regarding the demands on the Police, the Superintendent, Greg Banks advised on some of the work they do with NHS24 to understand how they can make an initial assessment with a vulnerable person with a focus on ensuring the member to the public is directed to the correct service. The Chief Inspector further advised on the systems in place in recording incidents with vulnerable people and the close working with partner agencies to ensure the correct service is provided to the person. The Chair commented positively on the work done in reducing the off-road motorcycles’ activities and the planned activity on operation close path and operation blinkers. In responding to a comment with regards to the Operation blinkers Chief Inspector advised on the challenges with the horses based in the west of the country and explained the process in getting this specialist resource to assist in Midlothian with the issues relating to horses on the roads. Police Inspector, David Rourke in responding to a comment raised by the Chair regarding Operation close path confirmed that this Operation and the other Operations in place are about educating the members of the public and raising awareness. He further commented that in Q3 there were zero calls regarding off road motorcycles and that this was a huge success for the MCAT team. Councillor Smaill enquired as to the number of drugs taken off the market in the last 12 months, in responding the Police Inspector advised he would need to get back on the exact figures but it was in the 100,000s. The Chair thanked Police Scotland for taking the time to bring this to Members today it was highly informative and very much appreciated. Decision The Board noted the contents of the presentation. Page 8 of 104
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6. Private Reports No private items for discussion 7. Date of Next Meeting The next meeting would be held on Monday 26 August 2024 at 11.00am. The meeting terminated at 14.17 pm. Page 9 of 104
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Police and Fire and Rescue Board Action Log No Date of Meeting Item No and Title Action Action Owner Expected completion date Comments 1 29/01/2024 Police Scotland Midlothian Area Command – Policy Development and Scrutiny Panel Quarter 3 2023/24 Bring back a report on fraud and cybercrime for Quarter 4. Jim Robertson (Police Scotland) Included on Agenda Completed 2 27/05/2024 Protective Services Any increase in fixed penalty notices regarding pavement parking and double yellow lines. Chief Officer Place August 2024 27/05/2024: to be included in the Quarter 1 Report. Police and Fire and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No 4.2 Page 11 of 104
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OFFICIAL 1 | P a g e OFFICIAL Midlothian Area Command The Lothians and Scottish Borders Policy Development and Scrutiny Panel Quarter 4 – 2023/2024 The data provided in this report is for information purposes only and is not official crime statistics. This report has been generated to allow Partnership Members to conduct their scrutiny responsibilities. Due to delayed reporting or recording of crimes, incidents or road accidents and the management of crime enquiries, there is likely to be differences between the information in this report and the final Police Scotland statistics. It would not be appropriate to refer to, quote or use any data in this report as official statistics. Police, Fire and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.1 Page 13 of 104
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OFFICIAL 2 | P a g e OFFICIAL Our Vision Sustained excellence in service and protection. Our Purpose To improve the safety and wellbeing of people, places and communities in Scotland. Our Values Integrity, Fairness and Respect. Page 14 of 104
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OFFICIAL 3 | P a g e OFFICIAL Contents of Report Lothian and Scottish Borders Division Policing Priorities 4 Introduction 5 Performance Summary Report 6 Executive Summary 7-8 Protecting the most vulnerable people Missing Persons 9 Domestic Abuse Incidents 10 Racially Aggravated Conduct 11 Crime (Group 2) 12 Drugs supply, Production & Cultivation 13 Reducing Violence and Antisocial Behaviour Crimes of Violence (Group 1) 14 Reducing Anti-Social Behaviour 15 Reducing Acquisitive Crime Dishonesty (Group 3) 16 Housebreaking 17 Improving Road Safety Road Safety 18-19 Tackling Serious & Organised Crime Tackling Serious & Organised Crime 20 Complaints About the Police 21-22 Midlothian CAT team – Q4 Update 23-28 Appendix Lothian and Scottish Borders Divisional Crime Overview 29-31 Midlothian Crime Overview 32-34 Page 15 of 104
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OFFICIAL 4 | P a g e OFFICIAL Lothian and Scottish Borders Division Policing Priorities Page 16 of 104
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OFFICIAL 5 | P a g e OFFICIAL Introduction Crimes and offences are grouped under recognised categories for statistical purposes. The Scottish Government defines these categories, as follows; Group 1 – Non Sexual Crimes of Violence Group 2 – Sexual Crimes Group 3 – Crimes of Dishonesty Group 4 – Fire-raising, Malicious Mischief etc. Group 5 – Other (Pro-activity) Crimes Group 6 – Miscellaneous Offences Group 7 - Offences Relating to Motor Vehicles Police Scotland publishes management information on an annual and quarterly basis by local authority and police division, as well as at a national level. These reports are produced to demonstrate Police Scotland’s commitment to transparency. Police Scotland publishes all of these reports on the ‘Our Performance’ section of the Police Scotland website. The reports can be accessed here: http://www.scotland.police.uk/about-us/our-performance/ The Midlothian Policing Plan uses the following Police performance indicators, and these have been mirrored in the Scrutiny Report to maintain parity of understanding: 1. Protecting the most vulnerable people; 2. Reducing Violence and Antisocial Behaviour; 3. Reducing acquisitive Crime; 4. Improving road safety; 5. Tackling Serious and Organised Crime. All figures quoted in this report are for the period April 2023 to March 2024 and are compared against the same reporting period from the previous year. Where figures are quoted on rate per 10,000 population, these are based on Midlothian’s population of 92,460 in 2019 (Scottish Government figures, published April 2020). Page 17 of 104
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OFFICIAL 6 | P a g e OFFICIAL Midlothian Performance Summary rimes of ishonesty oad Tra c asual es . . O ll ousebrea in . Serious ssault . ape . ape . omes c buse obberies Page 18 of 104
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OFFICIAL 7 | P a g e OFFICIAL Executive Summary This Quarter 4 2023/24 Police Scotland Policy Development and Scrutiny Panel Report, documenting ongoing commitment to keeping Midlothian communities safe. This report was not submitted ahead the Quarter 4 Midlothian Police and Fire Rescue Board that occurred on Monday 27th May due to Police Scotland’s annual Data Embargo, which is applied to ‘Year End data’ to allow the Chief Constable to report directly to the year-end meeting of the Scottish Police Authority (SPA). This year the embargo was applied to the period April 1st until June 7th 2024 inclusive, and as with previous years, covered the period until the official publication of year-end data by the Scottish Police Authority. Throughout Q4 2023/24, our Midlothian Community Policing team continued their focus on preventing and reducing rural crime. In partnership with the National Farmers Union, police arranged a Rural Crime Prevention Walk and Talk Event at Rosemains Steading, Pathhead on 29th February 2024. This event was attended by the Midlothian Partnership Against Rural Crime (MPARC) partners and stakeholders including: • Midlothian Police who provided crime prevention advice as well as information and awareness regarding wildlife crimes. • SPARC who provided an overview of the national crime status. • Scottish Fire & Rescue who provided farm fire safety advice. • Neighbourhood Watch who introduced Rural Watch. • Midlothian Council Protective Services Environmental Health who provided advice in relation to Fly tipping & Dog Control. The purpose of this meeting was to encourage and provide landowners with the opportunity to ask questions and receive collective advice to enhance the safety and security of their rural businesses and property. This event received positive feedback from those in attendance. During Q4 23/24 a new Service Level Agreement was agreed between Midlothian Council and Police Scotland to continue to provide 2024/25 Financial Year Ending (FYE) funding for the Midlothian Community Action Team (MCAT) whose focus remains to impact positively on the quality of life within Midlothian communities, concentrating on preventing anti-social behaviour and crime. This report summarises the Q4 2023/24 MCAT activity report however I would highlight the impressive recovery of £1,237,718.86 of class A and B controlled substances during the last 2023/24 FYE. This proactive policing clearly demonstrates Midlothian Police’s commitment to protecting vulnerable people and communities within Midlothian. Missing Person During Q4 2023/24 28 Adults, 0 Cared for Adults, 26 Children and 9 Looked After Children were reported as missing. All were traced safe and well by police and signposted to various partner agencies for additional ongoing support. Domestic Abuse By the end of Q4 2023/24 there were 1207 incidents reported, an increase of 6.8% on the 5 year average. The number of reported Domestic Abuse crimes recoded (639 reports) is 9.9% higher than the 5 year average. The percentage of domestic incidents that resulted in a crime report being submitted 39.1% represents a 0.4% decrease on the five year average. Page 19 of 104
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OFFICIAL 8 | P a g e OFFICIAL Hate Crime There has been an increase of 20 Hate Incidents reported during Q4 2023/24 compared to the 5 year average. This represents a 22.7% increase in reported incidents. There has been an increase of 23 Hate Crimes reported in Q4 2023/24 compared to the 5 year average. The detection rate for Hate Crimes at the end of Q4 2023/24 is 62% and represents a 5% increase on the Q3 return of 56.9%. Sexual Crimes By the end of Q4 2023/2024 reports of all Group 2 Sexual Crime within Midlothian had increased by 30.6% to 264 reports against a 5 year average of 202 reports. By the end of Q4 2023/2024 there had been 38 reports of Rape and Attempt Rape, this reflects an 5.5% increase on the 5 year average of 36 reports. The detection rate for Rape and Attempt Rape during Q3 is 44.7%, an increase of 4.7% on the Q3 detection rate. Drugs Supply, Production and Cultivation During Q4 2023/24 there were 211 Possession of Drugs crimes recorded, with a detection rate of 92.9%. Similarly, during Q4 2023/24 there were 38 Supply of Drugs crimes recorded, with a detection rate of 86.8%, with outstanding enquiries awaiting forensic analysis of items recovered by police. Crimes Of Violence During Q4 2023/2024 there were 45 serious assaults within Midlothian which reflects a 3.6% increase (1.6 more) than the 5 year average. The detection rate is 86.6%. There were 23 reported Robberies in Midlothian, the detection rate is 86.9%. There were 932 recorded Common Assaults in Midlothian presenting an 11.3% increase on the 5 year average. The detection rate is 70.8%. There were 69 assaults on Emergency Workers during Q4 2023/24 reflecting a -9.6% reduction on the 5 year average. Reducing Anti-Social Behaviour Throughout Q4 2023/2024, there were 4671 ASB incidents were reported to Police, maintaining an -16.4% reduction in this crime type with Midlothian compared to the five year average. A total of 596 Vandalism type offences were recorded, representing a -13% reduction compared to the 5 year average. Dishonesty During Q3 2023/24, a total of 1281 overall Group 3 crimes (including housebreaking crimes) have been recorded within Midlothian. The detection rate is 30.7%. Housebreaking During Q4 2023/24, a total of 1720 overall Group 3 crimes (including housebreaking crimes) have been recorded within Midlothian. This figure represents 117 fewer crimes or a -6.4 % reduction compared to the 5 year average. Road Safety Throughout Q4 2023/24 there have been 18 fewer casualties (Fatal, Serious, and Minor) recorded within Midlothian than the previous Q4 2022/ 23 return. This represents a -15.2% reduction in the total number of casualties on Midlothian roads. Tackling Serious Organised Crime Continued efforts to disrupt organised crime groups by targeting drugs supply offences, gathering intelligence and generating enforcement opportunities. Page 20 of 104
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OFFICIAL 9 | P a g e OFFICIAL Protecting the most vulnerable people. Missing Persons The Lothians & Scottish Borders (J) Division and the communities of Midlothian recognise that protecting people, particularly those considered vulnerable, is a policing priority. Within the remit of protecting people is the work and investigations carried out to trace people who are reported missing. Recognising the vulnerability associated with missing people, particularly those that are young or suffering from mental health challenges, Police Scotland has adopted a rigorous investigation structure and management approach to incidents involving missing people. Missing Person Type – JANUARY 2024 Adult 6 60% Cared for Adults 0 nil Child 3 30% Looked After Children 2 10% Missing Person Type – FEBRUARY 2024 Adult 12 52.17% Cared for Adults 0 nil Child 10 43.47% Looked After Child 1 4.34% Missing Person Type – MARCH DECEMBER 2024 Adult 10 34.48% Cared for Adults 0 Nil Child 13 44.82% Looked After Child 6 20.68% During Q4 2023/24 28 Adults, 0 Cared for Adults, 26 Children and 9 Looked After Children were reported as missing. We continue to work with partners to support individuals where a risk is identified. In total there were 18 more reports made to police during Q4 compared to Q3 2023/2024. As previously highlighted these types of enquiries often place significant resource and financial pressure on Local Policing resilience. I would stress that the number and type of police resources deployed to a locate a person reported as ‘missin ’ varies on a report by report basis and accordin to any Threat, is or arm posed. Page 21 of 104
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OFFICIAL 10 | P a g e OFFICIAL Protecting the most vulnerable people. Domestic Abuse Incidents 5yr Average Q4 2023/24 % Change Number of Domestic Abuse Incidents 1129.2 1207 6.89 Total Crimes and offences in domestic abuse incidents 581.2 639 9.94 Percentage of Domestic Incidents that result in a crime 39.59 39.11 -0.48 Total crimes and offences detection rate 69.92 64.95 -7.11 Total Detections for Domestic Bail Offences 57 70 22.81 Domestic Abuse is a priority for Police Scotland and for all Midlothian Officers. By the end of Q4 2023/24 there were 1207 incidents reported, an increase of 6.8% on the 5 year average. The number of reported Domestic Abuse crimes recoded (639 reports) is 9.9% higher than the 5 year average. The percentage of domestic incidents that resulted in a crime report being submitted 39.1% represents a 0.4% decrease on the five year average. These statistics document a continued confidence of the public to report incidents or contact Police at an early stage in disagreements. Midlothian Police remain committed to targeting violence against women and girls, demonstrated by a dedicated Domestic Violence Investigation team. During Q4 2023/24 this team arrested and reported a further 25 individuals for Domestic Abuse related offences. Page 22 of 104
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OFFICIAL 11 | P a g e OFFICIAL Protecting the most vulnerable people. Hate Crime Midlothian 5 year average Q4 2023/24 Q4 Per 10,000 Hate Incidents 87.2 107 11.57 Hate Crimes * 77.2 100 10.82 Hate Crime Detection Rate 72.28 62.00 This section refers to Hate Crime and Hate Incidents. Hate Crimes are offences under: -Section 50a (1) (A) and (B) and (5) Criminal law consolidation Act 1995 (racial harassment and abuse ) And any other crimes which include a Hate Crime aggravator- i.e. where a crime has been committed and is aggravated by hate. These aggravators are disability, race, religion, sexual orientation and transgender identity. Hate incidents are incidents where the facts do not identify as a recordable crime but the victim, or any other person, perceives the incident to be hate related. • There has been an increase of 20 Hate Incidents reported during Q4 2023/24 compared to the 5 year average. This represents a 22.7% increase in reported incidents. • There has been an increase of 23 Hate Crimes reported in Q4 2023/24 compared to the 5 year average. This represents a 29.5% increase in recorded crimes. • The detection rate for Hate Crimes at the end of Q4 2023/24 is 62% and represents a 5% increase on the Q3 return of 56.9%. Midlothian Police continue to work with partners to encourage the reporting of Hate Crimes. All crimes are reviewed by the Community Policing Inspector to ensure all investigative opportunities are identified and progressed. Page 23 of 104
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OFFICIAL 12 | P a g e OFFICIAL Protecting the most vulnerable people. Sexual Crimes (Group 2) Crime Type 5 Year average Q4 2023/24 Change YTD Per 10,000 population Q4 2023/24 Detection Rate Group 2 202 264 30.69% 28.55 44.70% Rape & Attempt Rape 36 38 5.56% 4.11 44.74% Indecent/Sexual Assault 78.4 89 13.52% 9.63 50.56% Other Group 2 87.4 137 56.75% 14.82 40.88% Reducing Rape and Sexual Crime is a core focus for officers in Midlothian. This includes working with partner agencies to provide confidence to report offences, undertaking professional investigations, providing victim support, pursuing perpetrators and managing offenders. The investigation of sexual crimes and the management of offenders, in particular, is achieved through close collaborative working with partner agencies and local communities. By the end of Q4 2023/2024 reports of all Group 2 Sexual Crime within Midlothian had increased by 30.6% to 264 reports against a 5 year average of 202 reports. By the end of Q4 2023/2024 there had been 38 reports of Rape and Attempt Rape, this reflects an 5.5% increase on the 5 year average of 36 reports. The detection rate for Rape and Attempt Rape during Q3 is 44.7%, an increase of 4.7% on the Q3 detection rate. As highlighted at previous scrutiny boards, these types of enquiry often require forensic examination of evidence to corroborate statements obtained and identify those responsible. Due to an ongoing backlog of items submitted nationally for forensic examination it is anticipated that a number of sexual offences reported to throughout Q4 2023/2024 will subsequently be solved following this critical forensic analysis. Page 24 of 104
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OFFICIAL 13 | P a g e OFFICIAL Protecting the most vulnerable people. Drug Supply, Production & Cultivation Drugs Supply 5 year average Q4 2023/24 Change YTD Per 10,000 population Q4 2023/24 Detection Rate Drugs Supply, Production and Cultivation 56.8 44 -22.54% 4.76 86.36% We continue to focus on those who bring harm to our communities, and particularly those who are involved in drugs supply, cultivation/production and the sale of Class A (such Heroin or Cocaine) and Class C (such Valium or Xanax) drugs, as it has been identified that these have led to an increase in drug related deaths. We recognise the national Drugs Deaths statistics in Scotland and are committed to targeting drug dealers, whilst working in partnership along with the Midlothian and East Lothian Drugs Partnership (MELDAP). During Q4 2023/24 there were 211 Possession of Drugs crimes recorded, with a detection rate of 92.9%. During Q4 2023/24 there were 38 Supply of Drugs crimes recorded, with a detection rate of 86.8%, with outstanding enquiries awaiting forensic analysis of items recovered by police. House searches under warrant have continued and have been successful in recovering drugs, cash and weapons. A number of reports have been submitted and details are contained within the circulated monthly reports. These searches do rely on a steady flow of intelli ence from the community, as well as proactivity by the M T’s and wider policing teams. Multiple Misuse of Drugs Warrants were executed by MCAT officers during Q4 2023/24, resulting in the following recoveries with the upper street value totalling: Multiple Misuse of Drugs Warrants were executed by MCAT officers during Q4 2023/24, resulting in the following recoveries with the upper street value totalling: Class A: £13,484 Class B: £10,180 Class C: £0.00 Police continue to developed drugs intelligence from the local community. Drugs enforcement requires information from sources to build a picture and fill in the pieces of the jigsaw. We rely upon community intelligence, and encourage reporting direct to police by phone, online, in person, via remote reporting sites and / or anonymously through Crimestoppers (0800 555111). Page 25 of 104
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OFFICIAL 14 | P a g e OFFICIAL Reducing Violence and Antisocial Behaviour Crimes of Violence (Group 1) Crime Type 5 year average Q4 2023/24 Change YTD Per 10,000 population Q4 2023/24 Detection Rate Group 1 126.6 208 64.30% 22.5 67.31% Serious Assault 43.4 45 3.69% 4.87 86.67% Robbery 19 23 21.05% 2.49 86.96% Common Assault 837.2 932 11.32% 100.8 70.82% *Common assaults are not recorded as group 1 crimes. Reducing violence and the impact on our communities is a priority for The Police Service of Scotland and within Midlothian we work with partners to reduce the circumstances that can lead to violence while endeavouring to identify and arrest perpetrators as swiftly as possible. All Serious Assaults and Robberies are investigated by the Criminal Investigation Department and solvency for these offences remains high within Midlothian. During Q4 2023/2024 there were 45 serious assaults within Midlothian which reflects a 3.69% increase on the 5 year average. The detection rate is 86.6% and remains well above the wider Divisional detection rate of 76.8%. During Q4 2023/2024 there were 23 reported Robberies in Midlothian, this is an 21% increase (4 more) than the 5 year average. The detection rate is 86.7% and similarly remains considerably above the wider Divisional detection rate of 66%. During Q4 2023/2024 there were 932 recorded Common Assaults in Midlothian presenting an 11.3% increase (95 more) than the 5 year average. The detection rate is 70.8% and remains well above the wider Divisional detection rate of 62.1%. There were 69 assaults on Emergency Workers during Q4 2023/24 reflecting a -9.6% reduction on the 5 year average. However any assault on an Emergency Worker is unacceptable, it is clear that aggressive or threatening behaviour or verbal abuse against Police Scotland or other Emergency Services personnel is simply not part of their duties. In March officers attended a reported serious assault in the Penicuik area, where the suspect made off prior to police attendance. As a result of the recently updated Midlothian Council CCTV network, officers were quickly able to secure footage of the suspect, tracing their movements prior to and after the incident. This footage allowed officers to locate the suspect quickly and assisted in ensuring they were remanded in custody, mitigating any further Threat, Risk or Harm posed. This incident was the first example of police using the recently upgraded Midlothian CCTV, which significantly assisted police maximise evidential opportunities whilst leading to a faster arrest. Page 26 of 104
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OFFICIAL 15 | P a g e OFFICIAL Reducing Violence and Antisocial Behaviour Reducing Antisocial Behaviour Indicator 5 Year Average 2023-24 Q4 Change TYTD Per 10,000 population Q4 2023/24 Detection Rate Antisocial Behaviour Incidents 5591.8 4671 -16.47 Vandalism (Including Malicious Mischief) 685.4 596 -13.04% 64.46 22.15% Fire-raising 43 67 55.81% 7.25 23.88% Breach of the Peace and S38 CJ&L(S) A 2010 718.6 624 -13.16% 67.49 72.60% Midlothian Police continue to tackle Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) in its various forms with our partners. Throughout Q4 2023/2024, there were 4671 ASB incidents were reported to Police, maintaining an -16.4% (920 fewer) reduction in this crime type with Midlothian compared to the five year average. During Q4 2023/2024 a total of 596 Vandalism type offences were recorded, representing a -13% (89 fewer) reduction compared to the 5 year average. The detection rate is 22.1%. During Q4 2023/2024 a total of 67 Fire-raising type offences were recorded, representing a 55.8% increase compared to the 5 year average. The detection rate is 23.8%, and remains above the wider Divisional detection rate of 18%. During Q4 2023/24 a total of 624 Breach of Peace type offences were recorded, representing a -13.1% (94 fewer) reduction compared to the 5 year average. The detection rate is 72.6% mirroring the wider Divisional detection rate of 71%. Page 27 of 104
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OFFICIAL 16 | P a g e OFFICIAL Reducing Acquisitive Crime Dishonesty (group 3) 5 Year Average Q4 2023/24 Change YTD Per 10,000 population Q4 2023/24 Detection Rate 1837.8 1720 -6.41% 186.03 29.88% Given the wide ran e of ‘ cquisitive rimes’ this priority is covered in sections within this report: • Dishonesty (covered in this section) • Housebreaking (covered in next section) Dealing with Acquisitive Crime to protect people by reducing the impacts of theft on individuals and communities remains a priority. During Q4 2023/24, a total of 1720 overall Group 3 crimes (including housebreaking crimes) have been recorded within Midlothian. This figure represents 117 fewer crimes or a -6.4 % reduction compared to the 5 year average. During Q4 the detection rate was 29.8% and remains above the wider Divisional detection rate of 27.2%. Page 28 of 104
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OFFICIAL 17 | P a g e OFFICIAL Reducing Acquisitive Crime Housebreaking Crime Type 5 Year Average Q4 2023/24 Change YTD Per 10,000 population Q4 2023/24 Detection Rate Dwelling HB 83.2 139 67.07% 15.03 20.14% Non Dwelling (Sheds, garages) HB 97.2 67 -31.07% 7.25 13.43% Other (Business) HB 56.8 57 0.35% 6.16 43.86% All HB 237.2 263 10.88% 28.44 23.57% During Q4 2023/24, a total of 139 reports of Theft Housebreaking (including attempts) were recorded. This figure represents a 67% (56 more) increase on the 5 average. A similar increase of 45% has been observed for this crime type throughout the wider Lothian & Scottish Borders Division area during Q4. During Q4 2023/24, a total of 104 reports of Theft of a Motor vehicle were recorded. This figure represents a 9% (9 more) increase on the 5 year average. During Q4 2023/24 the detection rate for Theft Housebreaking (including attempts) offences was 20.1%, this mirrors the wider Divisional detection rate of 22%. During Q4 2023/24 the detection rate for Theft Housebreaking Non Dwelling (including sheds) was 13.4%, this figure remains above the wider Divisional detection rate of 11%. MCAT officers continue to Prevent / Deter / Disrupt further Serious & Organised Crime activity with daily bail checks, tasked patrolling and dedicated operations at weekends. Similarly social media messaging is frequently published to raise awareness and highlight simple crime prevention advice, for example ensuring vehicle keys are stored securely and not left on open display next to insecure front doors. Page 29 of 104
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OFFICIAL 18 | P a g e OFFICIAL Improving road safety Road Casualties Q4 2022/23 Q4 2023/24 Change Fatal 3 3 - Serious 34 42 23.5% Slight 81 55 -32% Total 118 100 -15.2% Children (aged<16) Killed 0 0 - Children (aged<16) Seriously Injured 3 4 33.3% 5 Year Average Q4 2023/24 Change Dangerous driving 57.4 46 -19.86% Speeding 34.2 77 125.15% Disqualified driving 31 17 -45.16% Driving Licence 103.8 106 2.12% Insurance 268.4 296 10.28% Seat Belts 16 42 162.50% Mobile Phone 28.4 71 150.00% Drink/Drug Driving Detections 121 137 13.22% Throughout Q4 2023/24 there have been 18 fewer casualties (Fatal, Serious, and Minor) recorded within Midlothian than the previous Q4 2022/ 23 return. This represents a -15.2% reduction in the total number of casualties across Midlothian’s road networ . During Q4 2023/2024, 1 fatality was recorded. Unfortunately this statistic mirrors the previous year’s Q / return. Page 30 of 104
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OFFICIAL 19 | P a g e OFFICIAL During Q4 2023/2024, there have been 42 people Seriously Injured, reflecting a 23.5% increase (8 more incidents) on same period last year. During Q4 2023/2024 the number of Children Seriously Injured has been 4, reflecting a 33.3% (1 more) increase on same period last year. Encouragingly there has been a significant -32% decrease in the number of people Slightly Injured (down to 55 from 81) during Q4 2023/24 compared to the previous year. Page 31 of 104
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OFFICIAL 20 | P a g e OFFICIAL Tackling Serious & Organised Crime Tackling Serious & Organised Crime The UK threat level remains at Substantial as it has done since February 2022. Midlothian continue to wor closely with partner a encies to actively tar et “ ounty ines” nominals that use Midlothian as a base to distribute drugs throughout our community. The following table summarises recoveries of controlled substances in Midlothian over the last 12 months, clearly demonstrating the ongoing proactivity of MCAT officers to detect and disrupt Serious and Organised Crime Groups operating in Midlothian. Class of Drug FYE 2022/23 FYE 2023/24 A £57,237.40 £1,032,034.50 B £71,022.54 £205,684.36 C - - Total Value Recovered £128,259.94 £1,237,718.86 Page 32 of 104
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OFFICIAL 21 | P a g e OFFICIAL Complaints Executive Summary Table: Complaints and allegations received in the Midlothian Council area, by period (Apr – Mar) 1 TOTAL COMPLAINT CASES RECEIVED TOTAL NUMBER OF ALLEGATIONS RECEIVED YTD LYTD % Change YTD LYTD % Change Midlothian Council 104 85 22.4% 157 140 12.1% The breakdown above details the total number of Complaints about the Police, received in relation to the Midlothian area command as at 31st March 2024. The breakdown below provides further detail on the Allegation Category and Type. As can be seen there has been a 22.4% increase in the overall number of Complaints about the Police when comparing LYTD and YTD, demonstratin a willin ness in Midlothian’s communities to report any concerns regarding interactions with police officers, and furthermore a confidence that these concerns will be impartially investigated. Allegation Category and Type PYTD YTD % change from PYTD On Duty - TOTAL 86 88 2.3% Assault 11 5 -54.5% Discriminatory Behaviour 2 2 0.0% Excessive Force 6 8 33.3% Incivility 23 20 -13.0% Irregularity in Procedure 32 49 53.1% Neglect of Duty 1 0 -100.0% Oppressive Conduct/Harassment 7 0 -100.0% Other - Criminal 0 1 100.0% Other - Non Criminal 3 1 -66.7% Traffic Irregularity/Offence 1 2 100.0% Quality Of Service - TOTAL 54 69 27.8% Policy/Procedure 9 10 11.1% Page 33 of 104
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OFFICIAL 22 | P a g e OFFICIAL Service Delivery 22 23 4.5% Service Outcome 23 36 56.5% Grand Total 140 157 12.1% Page 34 of 104
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OFFICIAL 23 | P a g e OFFICIAL Midlothian CAT team – Q4 Update Activities 1. High Visibility Patrolling: the provision of community support and reassurance by undertaking high visibility vehicle, foot and cycle patrols focusing on identified antisocial behaviour issues. MCAT officers continued to conduct high visibility patrols across the Midlothian area throughout Q4 2023/2024. This included high visibility static road checks outside local Primary schools promoting road safety and ensuring the safety of children and guardians during school opening and closing hours. In addition, several static road checks employing the radar Speed gun were carried out at different locations across the county. Extra attention was given to Croft Street, Dalkeith, Lasswade Primary School, and Strathesk Primary School at school drop off and pick up times in relation to the restricted roads at these times. Mobile, Foot and Quad bike patrols were conducted in the town centers and hot spots for youth disorder and anti-social behavior (ASB) in Dalkeith, Loanhead, Bonnyrigg, Penicuik, and Mayfield to deter and engage with groups of youths. Initiatives and joint working were executed focusing on Lothian Bus routes specifically those between Tesco, Hardengreen, Dalkeith, Gorebridge terminus, and Rosewell working in conjunction with Lothian Buses similar to Q1, Q2 & Q3 2023/2024 and this work will continue moving forward. In relation to the continued impact of anti-social behaviour caused by off-road bikes in the Midlothian area, Operation Jewel has continued throughout Q4 2023/2024. Officers were deployed on Quadbikes to target specific areas known to be used by those responsible. These officers have been able to target and disrupt those involved. Specific areas have been identified as hotpots of this activity and targeted areas chosen being around Penicuik, Easthouses, and Mayfield. Resulting in several bikes being seized in Q4 with a total of 25 for 23/24 reporting year. Regular patrolling of and visits to all licensed premises in Midlothian continued. These patrols and visits are completed to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for those using hospitality venues and enjoying the weekend night life. These unannounced visits further play a role in ensuring premises are complying with the requirements of their operating licenses and where issues are identified allow follow up by designated Licensing Officers. 2. Recidivist Offenders: intelligence led focus on individuals known to engage in antisocial behaviour, drugs use/supply and persistent alcohol abuse, with specific attention being given to persons subject to ASBOs and judicial bails (including curfews). All opportunities are taken to challenge recidivist offenders, often historically responsible for many offences. In total 207 Bail Curfew checks were carried out with a compliance rate of 87% which is an increase from the previous quarter, demonstrating how the continued use of this tactic curtails criminal behavior. 17 individuals were arrested on warrant a number of these for multiple warrants by MCAT over this quarter, efforts continue to trace individuals to curtail criminal behavior. This is an increase from Q3 and a result of the continued effort this year to reduce the number of outstanding arrest warrants in Midlothian. Page 35 of 104
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OFFICIAL 24 | P a g e OFFICIAL Where there is a legislated reason, MCAT officers search individuals for controlled substances, stolen property, and weapons, progressing these to house searches if the circumstances allow. House searches under warrant have continued and have been successful in recovering drugs, cash, and weapons. Several reports have been submitted and details are in the monthly reports. These searches do rely on a steady flow of intelligence from the community, as well as proactivity by the team. Multiple Misuse of Drugs Warrants were executed by MCAT officers during Q4 2023/24, resulting in the following recoveries with the upper street value totaling: Class A: £13,484 Class B: £10,180 Class C: £0.00 Bail Curfew Check COMPLIANT 207 Bail Curfew Check FAILED 30 Arrest on warrant 17 Search Person MDA Positive 16 Search Person MDA Negative 11 Search Property MDA Positive 13 Search Property MDA Negative 1 Search Weapons Positive 9 Search Weapons Negative 0 Search Stolen Property Positive 4 Search Stolen Property Negative 1 3. Youth Engagement: actively engage with youths and foster a positive image of the police and their local communities. Act as primary first responders to youth calls, disrupt antisocial behaviour and enforce appropriate legislation firmly but fairly. Maximise alcohol seizures. Engage with partners and CBO colleagues to identify appropriate support and diversionary activities. Throughout Q4 2023/24, MCAT attended 49 youth incidents throughout Midlothian wards, this represents a decrease in youth related incidents on the last quarter linked this can be linked to the return to school following the festive period. Page 36 of 104
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OFFICIAL 25 | P a g e OFFICIAL Proactive patrols have continued at hot spot areas including Tesco/McDonalds Hardengreen, Gorebridge terminus, and Rosewell. MCAT ensure these are monitored and patrolled daily. MCAT continually liaise and work in partnership with the local Community and School Link officers to engage with youths, identify patterns, prevent incident before they arise and identify offenders. Operation Juke was instigated specifically to deal with Anti-Social Behaviour involving youths travelling along local bus routes. MCAT have been working closely with LRT to tackle youth offending and ASB on these buses. This has resulted in a strong partnership relationship and has resulted in numerous plain and uniform patrols, supported by LRT and the deployment of a decoy bus to identify those youths responsible for this behaviour. These deployments have had a positive impact reducing similar incidents across both Q1, Q2 and Q3. Youth Calls Attended 49 Alcohol Seizures 1 Children At Risk VPDs Submitted 0 4. Licensed Premises: monitor licensed premises activity and act as first responders to antisocial behavior related incidents whenever possible. All Midlothian Licensed premises continued to be monitored and visited by MCAT officers. There continues to be a gradual drop in incidents within licensed premises. LP Visit Public House 13 LP Visit Off Sales 0 5. Support Partners & Colleagues: engage with community partners to work together towards the vision and promote joint patrolling. Support divisional colleagues by acting as first responders to antisocial behaviour related incidents that are occurring in real time whenever possible. Instigate and contribute to operations and initiatives linked to the core vision. MCAT have been working closely with LRT to tackle youth offending and ASB on buses across both Q1, Q2, Q3 and Q4. This has resulted in a strong partnership relationship and has resulted in numerous plain and uniform patrols on the buses. MCAT continue to liaise with the Scottish Fire and Rescue service identifying areas where fires have been set but not reported to the Police, this allows MCAT to focus their patrols in these areas. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service now provide a weekly report to MCAT to assist with both prevention and detection. Page 37 of 104
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OFFICIAL 26 | P a g e OFFICIAL Joint Activity NHS/SAS 0 Joint Activity Local Council 0 Joint Activity SFRS 0 Joint Activity Public Event 0 6. Road Safety: tackle antisocial vehicle use, giving specific attention to inconsiderate vehicle use on the Midlothian road network and the illegal use of off-road motorcycles. Maximise the appropriate use of ASBO warnings and vehicle seizures. MCAT officers supported by the Community Policing Team continue to deal effectively with Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) with a particular focus during Q4 on Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) involving off road motorbikes. As part of Operation Jewel, high visibility and unmarked patrols continued in relation to theft of motor vehicles and anti-social use of off-road bikes throughout Midlothian which has resulted in several bikes seized and riders reported for Road Traffic Offences. MCAT completed 15 static road checks utilising Handheld Radar Gun during Q4. These checks were carried out in areas identified as a concern by local residents and Midlothian Council including Danderhall, Millerhill, Shawfair, Bonnyrigg, Roslin, Damhead. Road checks were also carried out around Cuiken, Lasswade, Strathesk and Lasswade Primary schools. Op Jarnaca a multi-agency road check with the assistance of officers from Roads Policing and DVSA was carried out on the A703 at Leandburn, several road traffic offences were identified with vehicles seized and reports submitted. MCAT completed extra patrols around areas with school restrictions zones. These patrols were completed at school drop off and pick up times in relation to parking on restricted roads at these times. MCAT engaged with and provided advice to drivers, pedestrians and local businesses where appropriate. Static Road Checks 15 Fixed Penalty Tickets (RTA only) 34 Section 165 Seizures 9 Breath Tests Negative (pass) 3 Breath Tests Positive (fail) 1 S5A Drug Wipe Negative (pass) 0 S5A Drug Wipe Positive (fail) 1 Page 38 of 104
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OFFICIAL 27 | P a g e OFFICIAL ASBO Seizures 0 Other Incidents and Arrests of Note MCAT carried out an enquiry into 8 thefts in a care setting from vulnerable people, a general evidence warrant was executed, identifying an offender who will be reported for these crimes. MCAT worked with the school link and community offices in relation to concerns raised regarding a youth sellin vapes to fellow students at school. M T attended at the youth’s home address carryin out a search of the property, a quantity of cash was recovered along with vapes and also a large quantity of empty boxes. The youth was spoken to in front of his parents and will be reported by means of the youth justice officer. School link officers have been made aware to speak to schools to identify any further trends of youths supplying vapes in schools. MCAT attended at Shawfair Park and Ride regarding at an organised car meet with over 100 cars in attendance, officers engaged with the drivers, no crimes were identified. Following a report of a housebreaking at a business premises, MCAT attended, carrying out an area search, locating stolen property and the accused. MCAT attended following a report of a series of bikes being stolen from the Auchendinny area, tracing the suspects, and recovering the stolen bikes. The accused was reported for several thefts. MCAT carried out an enquiry into a suspect causing fear and alarm repeatedly to several different local young persons in the Rosewell area, following enquiries the male was traced and reported for all offences reported. Due to ongoing reports of Housebreakings across Midlothian, MCAT with the assistance of Community officers traced the male responsible and he will be reported for several housebreakings. Planned Activity MCAT officers have several search warrants in hand to execute in the coming month and, as always, intelligence related to high tariff offenders in Midlothian is continuously being developed and will be actioned upon both proactively and reactively. In addition, MCAT will continue focused patrols, speed checks and Operation Jewel initiatives planned to target any specific issues that are brought to the attention of the MCAT by residents, partners, and colleagues or indeed discovered during usual proactive patrol and engagement with our communities. MCAT officers are gaining intelligence on a continued basis creating a picture of off-road bike issues and particularly where problem hot spots appear to be forming. A detailed rural patrol plan is being compiled to provide reassurance and Police presence to our vulnerable rural areas of Midlothian. MCAT Officers are working in partnership with Midlothian Council, Amberstone Security (Tesco Security), Tesco and Lothian Buses as part of Operation Juke to address increased youth anti-social behavior occurring around the bus terminus outside Tesco at Hardengreen. Page 39 of 104
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OFFICIAL 28 | P a g e OFFICIAL MCAT will carry out focused patrols and engagement with local businesses, partners, and the community in the area. Throu hout Q / , M T officers will continue to wor alon side Police Scotland’s Special Constable Inquiry Team (SIT) to enhance police resources in Midlothian addressing ASB and Speeding offences. Pedestrian and cycle zone exclusion enforcement – MCAT and CPT officers will be out ensuring the restrictions are adhered to. This is a priority issue for Midlothian residents and will be frequently patrolled with FPN issued where appropriate. MCAT are setting up a community outreach program to carry out visits to local nurseries and schools in the Midlothian area. The aim of this is to positively engage with the use of Police quadbikes with the school and nursery children. Page 40 of 104
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OFFICIAL 29 | P a g e OFFICIAL Appendix Lothian and Scottish Borders Divisional Crime Overview Lothian and Scottish Borders Division 5 Year Average 2023/24 Q4 Per 10,000 Q4 2023/24 Detection Rates 2023/24 GROUP 1: NON SEXUAL CRIMES OF VIOLENCE 675.8 1032 20.72 57.07 Murder (excluding culpable homicide at common law) 2.6 1 0.02 100.00 Culpable homicide (at common law) 0.6 0 0 - Culpable homicide (under statute including RTA, sec. 1) 4.4 2 0.04 100.00 Attempted murder 20.6 10 0.2 90.00 Serious assault 257.6 276 5.54 76.81 Robbery and assault with intent to rob 94.8 130 2.61 66.15 Domestic Abuse (of female) N/A 183 3.67 75.96 Domestic Abuse (of male) N/A 8 0.16 50.00 Domestic Abuse (Total) N/A 191 3.83 74.87 Cruel & Unnatural treatment of children 62.2 86 1.73 108.14 Threats and extortion 95.8 287 5.76 4.18 Other group 1 crimes 38 49 0.98 63.27 GROUP 2: SEXUAL CRIMES 1114.6 1384 27.78 51.59 Rape 202.2 211 4.24 53.08 Assault w/i to rape or ravish 9.6 5 0.1 60.00 Rape and attempted rape - Total 211.8 216 4.34 53.24 Sexual assault (pre-SOSA 2009)* 14 13 0.26 38.46 Sexual assault (SOSA 2009)* 313.2 396 7.95 46.97 Lewd & libidinous practices* 92.2 73 1.47 60.27 Indecent/Sexual Assault - Total 419.4 482 9.68 48.76 Prostitution related crime - Total* 0.8 2 0.04 50.00 Taking, distribution, possession of indecent photos of children 58.4 80 1.61 82.50 Communicating indecently (SOSA 2009)* 102.2 129 2.59 62.02 Communications Act 2003 (sexual) 21.6 26 0.52 46.15 Sexual exposure (SOSA 2009)* 32.2 49 0.98 65.31 Public indecency (common law) 9.4 6 0.12 100.00 Other sexual crimes (SOSA 2009)* 168.4 267 5.36 42.70 Other sexual crimes (non-SOSA 2009)* 17.2 26 0.52 69.23 Threatening / Disclosure of intimate image* 73.2 101 2.03 34.65 Other Group 2 crimes 0 0 0 - Other Group 2 crimes - Total 482.6 684 13.73 53.07 GROUP 3: CRIMES OF DISHONESTY 8488 8634 173.32 27.25 Housebreaking (incl. attempts) - dwelling house 376 545 10.94 22.39 Housebreaking (incl. attempts) - non dwelling 290.4 152 3.05 11.84 Housebreaking (incl. attempts) - other premises 347.6 242 4.86 40.08 Housebreaking (incl. Attempts) - Total 1014 939 18.85 25.24 Page 41 of 104
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OFFICIAL 30 | P a g e OFFICIAL Opening Lockfast Places - Motor Vehicle 192.8 171 3.43 9.94 Theft of a motor vehicle 443.4 407 8.17 33.17 Theft from a Motor Vehicle (Insecure etc.) 456.4 270 5.42 14.44 Attempt theft of motor vehicle 34.4 37 0.74 18.92 Motor vehicle crime - Total 1127 885 17.77 22.37 Opening Lockfast Places - NOT Motor Vehicle 136 163 3.27 14.11 Common theft 2374 2110 42.36 19.19 Theft by shoplifting 2191.8 2644 53.08 43.04 Fraud 1092.8 1445 29.01 12.04 Other Group 3 Crimes 552.4 448 8.99 39.73 GROUP 4: FIRE-RAISING, MALICIOUS MISCHIEF etc. 4034.6 3936 79.01 26.35 Fireraising 230.2 285 5.72 18.95 Vandalism (including malicious mischief) 3547.2 3345 67.15 25.71 Reckless conduct (with firearms) 4.6 2 0.04 50.00 Culpable and reckless conduct (not with firearms) 242.6 259 5.2 46.33 Other Group 4 Crimes 10 45 0.9 4.44 GROUP 5: OTHER (PRO-ACTIVITY) CRIMES 4171 4256 85.43 93.54 Carrying offensive weapons (incl. restriction) 155 184 3.69 84.78 Handling bladed/pointed instrument 162.6 154 3.09 97.40 Offensive weapon (used in other criminal activity)* 131.8 266 5.34 67.29 Bladed/pointed instrument (used in other criminal activity)* 73.8 140 2.81 75.71 Total offensive/bladed weapons 523.2 744 14.93 79.44 Production, manufacture or cultivation of drugs 58.6 51 1.02 84.31 Supply of drugs (incl. possession with intent) 202.6 203 4.07 87.68 Bringing drugs into prison 19.2 14 0.28 28.57 Supply of drugs - Total 280.4 268 5.38 83.96 Possession of drugs 1744.2 1182 23.73 96.62 Other drugs offences (incl. importation) 12 4 0.08 100.00 Total drugs crimes 2036.6 1454 29.19 94.29 Offences relating to serious and organised crime 1.4 14 0.28 92.86 Bail offences (other than absconding) 858.6 1203 24.15 99.25 Other Group 5 crimes 751.2 841 16.88 96.55 GROUP 6: MISCELLANEOUS OFFENCES 9948.4 10576 212.3 67.34 Common Assault 4244.6 4942 99.21 62.12 Common Assault (of emergency workers) 416.2 456 9.15 99.78 Common Assault - Total 4660.8 5398 108.36 65.30 Breach of the Peace 117 114 2.29 95.61 Threatening & abusive behaviour 3484.2 3405 68.35 72.60 Stalking 100.4 95 1.91 82.11 BOP, S38 & S39 Crim Just & Lic (S) Act 2010 - Total 3701.6 3614 72.55 73.57 Racially aggravated harassment/conduct* 119.6 112 2.25 89.29 Drunk and incapable 36.4 29 0.58 100.00 Consume alcohol in designated place local bye-law 28.6 22 0.44 104.55 Other alcohol related offences* 37.4 32 0.64 106.25 Page 42 of 104
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OFFICIAL 31 | P a g e OFFICIAL Drunkenness and other disorderly conduct (TOTAL) 102.4 83 1.67 103.61 Wildlife offences* 37.4 43 0.86 44.19 Other Group 6 offences 1326.6 1326 26.62 55.28 GROUP 7: OFFENCES RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLES 7056.2 8243 165.47 84.41 Dangerous driving offences 250.6 227 4.56 81.06 Drink, Drug driving offences incl. Failure to provide a specimen 544 585 11.74 98.80 Speeding offences 491.2 252 5.06 98.81 Driving while disqualified 109 76 1.53 98.68 Driving without a licence 527.4 456 9.15 100.66 Failure to insure against third party risks 1375.6 1277 25.63 99.53 Seat belt offences 122 154 3.09 99.35 Mobile phone offences 162 155 3.11 95.48 Driving Carelessly 622.8 694 13.93 87.32 Drivers neglect of traffic directions (NOT pedestrian crossings) 213.4 1310 26.3 99.77 Using a motor vehicle without test certificate 737 683 13.71 100.15 Other Group 7 offences 1901.2 2374 47.66 52.40 Page 43 of 104
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OFFICIAL 32 | P a g e OFFICIAL Midlothian Recorded Crime Overview Midlothian 5 Year Average 2023/24 Q4 Per 10,000 Q4 2023/24 Detection Rates 2023/24 GROUP 1: NON SEXUAL CRIMES OF VIOLENCE 126.6 208 22.5 67.31 Murder (excluding culpable homicide at common law) 0.6 0 - - Culpable homicide (at common law) 0 0 - - Culpable homicide (under statute including RTA, sec. 1) 0.6 0 - - Attempted murder 2.4 4 0.43 125 Serious assault 43.4 45 4.87 86.67 Robbery and assault with intent to rob 19 23 2.49 86.96 Domestic Abuse (of female) x 33 3.57 72.73 Domestic Abuse (of male) x 2 0.22 50 Domestic Abuse (Total) x 35 3.79 71.43 Cruel & Unnatural treatment of children 22.2 26 2.81 146.15 Threats and extortion 15 59 6.38 3.39 Other group 1 crimes 6.4 16 1.73 68.75 GROUP 2: SEXUAL CRIMES 202 264 28.55 44.7 Rape 35 38 4.11 44.74 Assault w/i to rape or ravish 1 0 - - Rape and attempted rape - Total 36 38 4.11 44.74 Sexual assault (pre-SOSA 2009)* 2.6 2 0.22 0 Sexual assault (SOSA 2009)* 56.6 72 7.79 41.67 Lewd & libidinous practices* 19.2 15 1.62 100 Indecent/Sexual Assault - Total 78.4 89 9.63 50.56 Prostitution related crime - Total* 0.2 0 - - Taking, distribution, possession of indecent photos of children 11.8 10 1.08 60 Communicating indecently (SOSA 2009)* 20.2 33 3.57 60.61 Communications Act 2003 (sexual) 2.8 3 0.32 33.33 Sexual exposure (SOSA 2009)* 7.4 6 0.65 16.67 Public indecency (common law) 1.4 0 - - Other sexual crimes (SOSA 2009)* 26 64 6.92 28.13 Other sexual crimes (non-SOSA 2009)* 2 2 0.22 150 Threatening / Disclosure of intimate image* 15.8 19 2.05 36.84 Other Group 2 crimes 0 0 - - Other Group 2 crimes - Total 87.4 137 14.82 40.88 GROUP 3: CRIMES OF DISHONESTY 1837.8 1720 186.03 29.88 Housebreaking (incl. attempts) - dwelling house 83.2 139 15.03 20.14 Housebreaking (incl. attempts) - non dwelling 97.2 67 7.25 13.43 Housebreaking (incl. attempts) - other premises 56.8 57 6.16 43.86 Housebreaking (incl. Attempts) - Total 237.2 263 28.44 23.57 Opening Lockfast Places - Motor Vehicle 32.4 27 2.92 11.11 Theft of a motor vehicle 95 104 11.25 28.85 Page 44 of 104
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OFFICIAL 33 | P a g e OFFICIAL Theft from a Motor Vehicle (Insecure etc.) 80 57 6.16 14.04 Attempt theft of motor vehicle 6.4 4 0.43 25 Motor vehicle crime - Total 213.8 192 20.77 21.88 Opening Lockfast Places - NOT Motor Vehicle 22.4 48 5.19 0 Common theft 425.2 372 40.23 27.15 Theft by shoplifting 617.2 506 54.73 46.25 Fraud 201.2 250 27.04 13.2 Other Group 3 Crimes 120.8 89 9.63 47.19 GROUP 4: FIRE-RAISING, MALICIOUS MISCHIEF etc. 788.4 737 79.71 24.15 Fireraising 43 67 7.25 23.88 Vandalism (including malicious mischief) 685.4 596 64.46 22.15 Reckless conduct (with firearms) 0.4 0 - - Culpable and reckless conduct (not with firearms) 56.2 61 6.6 47.54 Other Group 4 Crimes 3.4 13 1.41 7.69 GROUP 5: OTHER (PRO-ACTIVITY) CRIMES 876 815 88.15 93.5 Carrying offensive weapons (incl. restriction) 30.2 30 3.24 86.67 Handling bladed/pointed instrument 28.8 23 2.49 104.35 Offensive weapon (used in other criminal activity)* 20.2 48 5.19 70.83 Bladed/pointed instrument (used in other criminal activity)* 11.4 20 2.16 70 Total offensive/bladed weapons 90.6 121 13.09 80.99 Production, manufacture or cultivation of drugs 11.2 6 0.65 83.33 Supply of drugs (incl. possession with intent) 45.6 38 4.11 86.84 Bringing drugs into prison 0 0 - - Supply of drugs - Total 56.8 44 4.76 86.36 Possession of drugs 386.6 211 22.82 92.89 Other drugs offences (incl. importation) 1 2 0.22 0 Total drugs crimes 444.4 257 27.8 91.05 Offences relating to serious and organised crime 0.4 3 0.32 100 Bail offences (other than absconding) 194.6 256 27.69 100 Other Group 5 crimes 146 178 19.25 96.07 GROUP 6: MISCELLANEOUS OFFENCES 1861.6 1835 198.46 70.74 Common Assault 760.8 863 93.34 67.67 Common Assault (of emergency workers) 76.4 69 7.46 110.14 Common Assault - Total 837.2 932 100.8 70.82 Breach of the Peace 21.2 14 1.51 100 Threatening & abusive behaviour 680.4 600 64.89 71.33 Stalking 17 10 1.08 110 BOP, S38 & S39 Crim Just & Lic (S) Act 2010 - Total 718.6 624 67.49 72.6 Racially aggravated harassment/conduct* 18.4 13 1.41 100 Drunk and incapable 7.4 5 0.54 100 Consume alcohol in designated place local bye-law 10.4 9 0.97 100 Other alcohol related offences* 12 4 0.43 100 Drunkenness and other disorderly conduct (TOTAL) 29.8 18 1.95 100 Wildlife offences* 4.6 1 0.11 100 Page 45 of 104
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OFFICIAL 34 | P a g e OFFICIAL Other Group 6 offences 253 247 26.71 61.94 GROUP 7: OFFENCES RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLES 1321 1738 187.97 84.23 Dangerous driving offences 57.4 46 4.98 82.61 Drink, Drug driving offences incl. Failure to provide a specimen 121 137 14.82 99.27 Speeding offences 34.2 77 8.33 98.7 Driving while disqualified 31 17 1.84 100 Driving without a licence 103.8 106 11.46 100 Failure to insure against third party risks 268.4 296 32.01 100.68 Seat belt offences 16 42 4.54 100 Mobile phone offences 28.4 71 7.68 98.59 Driving Carelessly 118.2 153 16.55 86.27 Drivers neglect of traffic directions (NOT pedestrian crossings) 28.2 171 18.49 98.83 Using a motor vehicle without test certificate 93.8 148 16.01 100 Other Group 7 offences 420.6 474 51.27 48.95 Page 46 of 104
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OFFICIAL 1 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 Midlothian Area Command The Lothians and Scottish Borders Policy Development and Scrutiny Panel Quarter 1 – 2024/2025 The data provided in this report is for information purposes only and is not official crime statistics. This report has been generated to allow Partnership Members to conduct their scrutiny responsibilities. Due to delayed reporting or recording of crimes, incidents or road accidents and the management of crime enquiries, there is likely to be differences between the information in this report and the final Police Scotland statistics. It would not be appropriate to refer to, quote or use any data in this report as official statistics. Page 47 of 104
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OFFICIAL 2 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 Our Vision Sustained excellence in service and protection. Our Purpose To improve the safety and wellbeing of people, places and communities in Scotland. Our Values Integrity, Fairness and Respect. Page 48 of 104
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OFFICIAL 3 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 Contents of Report Lothian and Scottish Borders Division Policing Priorities 4 Introduction 5 Performance Summary Report 6 Executive Summary 7-9 Protecting the most vulnerable people Missing Persons 10 Domestic Abuse Incidents 11-12 Racially Aggravated Conduct 13 Crime (Group 2) 14 Drugs supply, Production & Cultivation 15 Reducing Violence and Antisocial Behaviour Crimes of Violence (Group 1) 16 Reducing Anti-Social Behaviour 17 Reducing Acquisitive Crime Dishonesty (Group 3) 18 Housebreaking 19 Improving Road Safety Road Safety 20-21 Tackling Serious & Organised Crime Tackling Serious & Organised Crime 22 Complaints About the Police 23 Midlothian CAT team – Q1 Update 24-29 Appendix Lothian and Scottish Borders Divisional Crime Overview 30-32 Midlothian Crime Overview 33-35 Page 49 of 104
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OFFICIAL 4 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 Lothian and Scottish Borders Division Policing Priorities Page 50 of 104
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OFFICIAL 5 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 Introduction Crimes and offences are grouped under recognised categories for statistical purposes. The Scottish Government defines these categories, as follows. Group 1 – Non Sexual Crimes of Violence Group 2 – Sexual Crimes Group 3 – Crimes of Dishonesty Group 4 – Damage and Reckless Behaviour Group 5 – Crimes against Society Group 6 – Antisocial Offences Group 7 – Miscellaneous Offences Group 8 – Road Traffic offences Police Scotland publishes management information on an annual and quarterly basis by local authority and police division, as well as at a national level. These reports are produced to demonstrate Police Scotland’s commitment to transparency. Police Scotland publishes all of these reports on the ‘Our Performance’ section of the Police Scotland website. The reports can be accessed here: http://www.scotland.police.uk/about-us/our-performance/ The Midlothian Policing Plan uses the following Police performance indicators, and these have been mirrored in the Scrutiny Report to maintain parity of understanding: 1. Protecting the most vulnerable people 2. Reducing Violence and Antisocial Behaviour 3. Reducing acquisitive Crime 4. Improving road safety 5. Tackling Serious and Organised Crime All figures quoted in this report are for the period April 2024 to June 2024 and are compared against the same reporting period from the previous year. Where figures are quoted on rate per 10,000 population, these are based on Midlothian’s population of 94,680 in 2021 (Scottish Government figures, published April 2021). Page 51 of 104
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OFFICIAL 6 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 Midlothian Performance Summary rimes of ishonesty oad asual es . on T on T O ll ousebrea in . on T andalism . on T omes c rime issin Person ncidents ewer on T obberies . on T Page 52 of 104
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OFFICIAL 7 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 Executive Summary Changes to Recorded Crime Groups From 01 April 2024, The Scottish Crime Recording Board agreed that common assault and stalking crimes will be moved from Crime Group 6 (Miscellaneous Offences) to Crime Group 1 (Crimes of Violence). In addition, all common assaults have been split into Assault with injury and Assault non-injury categories. Serious assaults also have new categories available to separate police workers and non-police emergency workers. Similarly, these changes reflect the introduction of new legislation To improve consistency in reporting, and assist with quality assurance across publications, Police Scotland, while making the changes above from the Scottish Crime Recording Board, are changing to report externally and internally using Groups 1 to 8. The Scottish Crime Recording Board agreed that common assault and stalking crimes will be moved from Crime Group 6 (Miscellaneous Offences) to Crime Group 1 (Crimes of Violence). In addition, all common assaults have been split into Assault with injury and Assault non-injury categories. Serious assaults also have new categories available to separate police workers and non-police emergency workers. Similarly, these changes reflect the introduction of new legislation Public Enquiry Station Assistant model As part of a recent Voluntary Redundancy and Voluntary Early Retirement (VER) process completed recently throughout Police Scotland, Midlothian Police will now provide a resourced Public Counter service at Dalkeith Police Station only. Members of the public will still be able to report matters to police via the traditional method of attending at Dalkeith Police Station in person, or alternatively via the yellow phone boxes located at all 3 x Midlothian Police Stations (Dalkeith, Bonnyrigg and Penicuik). Alternatively, members of the Public can report non-emergency matters to police via 101, or online via our ‘ ontact Us’ form locate on the Police Scotland website. United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) Scotland is set to be the first country in the UK to incorporate the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) into domestic law, with the UNCRC Act 2024. The UNCRC Act received Royal Assent in January 2024 and requirements for public authorities like Police Scotland will come into force on Tuesday, 16 July 2024. The Act will lead to shifts in the way that children's rights are protected and upheld in Scotland, with children's voices becoming a significant factor in decision-making for public authorities. Police Scotland and our partners are preparing for the introduction of this new and important legislation Your Police Survey Midlothian Police welcome feedback from our Communities via the following Your Police Survey portal. Page 53 of 104
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OFFICIAL 8 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 MISSING PERSON During Q1 2024/25 24 Adults, 1 Cared for Adults, 19 Children and 6 Care Experienced Young Persons were reported as missing. We continue to work with partners to support individuals where a risk is identified. In total there were 13 fewer reports made to police during Q1 compared to Q4 2023/2024. DOMESTIC ABUSE By the end of Q1 2024/25 there were 308 incidents reported, an increase of 7.3% previous years Q1 2023/24 (LYTD). The number of reported Domestic Abuse crimes recoded (96 reports) is 24% fewer than LYTD where 127 reports were received. The percentage of domestic incidents that resulted in a crime report being submitted 31.2% represents a 13.1% decrease on the LYTD percentage. HATE CRIME During Q1 2024/25 there have been 4 Hate Incidents recorded mirroring LYTD. During same period there have been 23 Hate Crimes recorded which is a 21.1% increase on LYTD. The detection rate for Hate Crimes at the end of Q1 2024/25 is 56.6%, representing a 19.7% improvement on LYTD. SEXUAL CRIMES By the end of Q1 2024/25 reports of all Group 2 Sexual Crime within Midlothian had increased by 25.37% compared to LYTD, with 84 reports recorded compared to 67 last year. The Detection Rate for Group 2 Offences has improved 25.5% on the previous Q4 rate and is currently 70.2%. DRUGS SUPPLY, PRODUCTION AND CULTIVATION During Q1 2024/ 25 there were 28 Supply of Drugs offences recorded, with a detection rate of 90.9%, with outstanding enquiries awaiting forensic analysis of items recovered by police. During Q1 2024/25 there were 64 Production, Manufacture or Cultivation of Drugs offences recorded. CRIMES OF VIOLENCE During Q1 2024/25 there were 12 serious assaults within Midlothian which mirrors the number recorded LYTD. The detection rate is 66.7%, reflecting the wider Divisional detection rate of 66.9%. During Q1 2024/25 there were 2 reported Robberies in Midlothian, this is a -77.78% decrease (7 less) than LYTD. The detection rate is 50%. REDUCING ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR Throughout Q1 2024/25, there were 172 ASB incidents were reported to Police, reflecting the same number recorded LYTD. During Q1 2024/25 a total of 162 Vandalism type offences were recorded, representing a -5.81% (10 fewer) reduction compared LYTD. The detection rate is 25.3%. During Q1 2024/25 a total of 14 Fire-raising type offences were recorded, representing a 7.6% increase (1 more) compared to LYTD. The detection rate is Page 54 of 104
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OFFICIAL 9 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 21.4%, fractionally below the wider Divisional detection rate of 22.8%. During Q1 2024/25 a total of 146 Breach of Peace type offences were recorded, representing a -10.4% (17 fewer) reduction compared to LYTD. The detection rate is 76%. DISHONESTY During Q1 2024/25, a total of 428 overall Group 3 crimes (including housebreaking crimes) have been recorded within Midlothian. This figure represents 9 more or a -2.15 % increase compared to LYTD. During Q1 detection rate was 34.1% and remains above the wider Divisional detection rate of 30.6%. HOUSEBREAKING During Q1 2024/25, a total of 22 reports of Theft Housebreaking (including attempts) were recorded. This figure represents a 4.76% (1 more) increase on LYTD. The detection rate for housebreaking offences during Q1 2024/25 has increased to 81.8% compared to the previous Q4 2023/24 detection rate of 20.14%. During Q1 2024/25, a total of 9 reports of Theft Housebreaking to No Dwellings were recorded. This figure represents a -47.06% (8 fewer) reduction on LYTD. The detection rate is 22.2% compared to the wider detection rate of 17.6%. During Q1 2024/25, a total of 9 reports of Theft Housebreaking to Businesses were recorded. This figure represents a -52.63% (10 fewer) reduction on LYTD. The detection rate is 111.1%. ROAD SAFETY Throughout Q1 2024/25 there has been 15 fewer casualties (Fatal, Serious, and Minor) recorded within Midlothian than LYTD. This represents a -54% reduction in the total number of casualties across idlothian’s Road network TACKLING SERIOUS ORGANISED CRIME Continued efforts to disrupt organised crime groups by targeting drugs supply offences, gathering intelligence and generating enforcement opportunities. Page 55 of 104
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OFFICIAL 10 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 Protecting the most vulnerable people. Missing Persons The Lothians & Scottish Borders (J) Division and the communities of Midlothian recognise that protecting people, particularly those considered vulnerable, is a policing priority. Within the remit of protecting people is the work and investigations carried out to trace people who are reported missing. Missing Person Type – APRIL 2024 Adult 9 56.25% Cared for Adults 0 0 Child 4 25% Care Experienced Young Person 3 18.75% Missing Person Type – MAY 2024 Adult 12 70.58% Cared for Adults 0 0 Child 2 11.76% Care Experienced Young person 3 17.64% Missing Person Type – JUNE 2024 Adult 3 17.64% Cared for Adults 1 5.88% Child 13 76.47% Care Experienced Young Person 0 0 During Q1 2024/25 24 Adults, 1 Cared for Adults, 19 Children and 6 Crae Experienced Young Persons were reported as missing. We continue to work with partners to support individuals where a risk is identified. In total there were 13 fewer reports made to police during Q1 compared to Q4 2023/2024. As previously highlighted these types of enquiries often place significant resource and financial pressure on Local Policing resilience. I would stress that the number and type of police resources deployed to a locate a person reported as ‘missin ’ varies on a report by report basis and accordin to any Threat, is or arm posed. Page 56 of 104
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OFFICIAL 11 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 Protecting the most vulnerable people. Domestic Abuse Incidents Q1 2023/24 Q1 2024/25 % Change Number of Domestic Abuse Incidents 287 308 7.3% Total Crimes and offences in domestic abuse incidents 127 96 -24.4% Percentage of Domestic Incidents that result in a crime 44.3 31.2 -13.1% Total crimes and offences detection rate 108 124 14.8 Total Detections for Domestic Bail Offences 18% 13% -27.8 Domestic Abuse is a priority for Police Scotland and for all Midlothian Officers. By the end of Q1 2024/25 there were 308 incidents reported, an increase of 7.3% previous years Q1 2023/24 (LYTD). The number of reported Domestic Abuse crimes recoded (96 reports) is 24% fewer than LYTD where 127 reports were received. The percentage of domestic incidents that resulted in a crime report being submitted 31.2% represents a 13.1% decrease on the LYTD percentage. These statistics document a continued confidence of the public to report incidents or contact Police at an early stage in disagreements. Midlothian Police remain committed to targeting violence against women and girls, demonstrated by a dedicated Domestic Violence Investigation team. The detection rate for domestic crimes and offences during Q1 2024/25 has increased 14.8% compared to LYTD. During Q1 2024/25 this team arrested and reported a further 21 individuals for Domestic Abuse related offences. Domestic offending often takes place behind closed doors with many victims being reluctant to report crimes. Our officers work tirelessly to support victims and utilise many investigative tools to both bring offenders to justice and ensure bail conditions are rigorously enforced. We continue this work into Q2. Similarly, specialist Detective Officers from the Domestic Abuse Investigation Unit continue to pro-actively target domestic abuse perpetrators through various investigative tools. This includes wider pro-active investigations into historical perpetrator abuse through identification of previous partners and offending and multi-agency partnership working to address and mitigate risk to vulnerable victims and their families throughout all our communities. Page 57 of 104
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OFFICIAL 12 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 pplications to the isclosure Scheme for omestic buse Scotland continue to rise for both the ‘ i ht to s ’, which allows persons to apply for information re ardin an individual’s abusive past whether that individual is a new partner or the partner of a family member or friend, and the ‘Power to Tell’, which allows the Police to disclose relevant information about an individual’s abusive past to any new partner urin pril, idlothian Police supported “National Stal in wareness Wee ”. This year, we focused on the theme of ‘Joinin forces’ and the importance of partnership in supportin victims of stal in and harassment. The latest Scottish Crime and Justice survey found that over a quarter of women aged 16 to 24 had experienced at least one form of stalking and harassment although it is believed that this type of crime is likely to be under reported. We encourage any victim to seek help and contact police, crimes of these nature are taken very seriously, and support will be provided to every victim. Page 58 of 104
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OFFICIAL 13 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 Protecting the most vulnerable people. Hate Crime Midlothian Q1 2023/24 Q1 2024/25 % change Hate Incidents 4 4 - Hate Crimes 19 23 21.1% Hate Crime Detection Rate 36.8% 56.5% 19.7% This section refers to Hate Crime and Hate Incidents. Hate Crimes are offences under: -Section 50a (1) (A) and (B) and (5) Criminal law consolidation Act 1995 (racial harassment and abuse) And any other crimes which include a Hate Crime aggravator- i.e. where a crime has been committed and is aggravated by hate. These aggravators are disability, race, religion, sexual orientation and transgender identity. Hate incidents are incidents where the facts do not identify as a recordable crime but the victim, or any other person, perceives the incident to be hate related. • During Q1 2024/25 there have been 4 Hate Incidents recorded mirroring LYTD. • During same period there have been 23 Hate Crimes recorded which is a 21.1% increase on LYTD. • The detection rate for Hate Crimes at the end of Q1 2024/25 is 56.6%, representing a 19.7% improvement on LYTD. Midlothian Police continue to work with partners to encourage the reporting of Hate Crimes. All crimes are reviewed by the Community Policing Inspector to ensure all investigative opportunities are identified and progressed. Strengthening our approach to Hate Crime and reflecting the new Hate Crime and Public Order (Scotland) Act 2021 coming into effect on the 1st of April 2024, a new training package is being developed to include the new legislation. Once this training package has been completed, current third party reporting centres will be approached to ascertain if they wish to remain on the scheme and receive the new training. Hate has no place in society and Midlothian police will actively pursue offenders and report criminality where evidence supports this. Page 59 of 104
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OFFICIAL 14 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 Protecting the most vulnerable people. Sexual Crimes (Group 2) Crime Type Q1 2023/24 Q1 2024/25 % Change % Detection Group 2 67 84 25.37 70.2% Rape/Attempt rape 3 23 666.67 69.6% Sexual Assault 20 18 -10 83.3% Other Group 2 crimes 8 9 12.5 77.8% Reducing Rape and Sexual Crime is a core focus for officers in Midlothian. This includes working with partner agencies to provide confidence to report offences, undertaking professional investigations, providing victim support, pursuing perpetrators and managing offenders. The investigation of sexual crimes and the management of offenders, in particular, is achieved through close collaborative working with partner agencies and local communities. By the end of Q1 2024/25 reports of all Group 2 Sexual Crime within Midlothian had increased by 25.37% compared to LYTD, with 84 reports recorded compared to 67 last year. The Detection Rate for Group 2 Offences has improved 25.5% on the previous Q4 rate and is currently 70.2%. By the end of Q1 2024/25 there had been 23 reports of Rape and Attempt Rape, this reflects an 666.67% increase on LYTD where only 3 reports were recorded. The statistical increase in this crime is explained by the significantly reduced number of reports received last year of which any increase upon results in a significant percentage increase. Following review of this crime type I would comment that 9 reports referred to Rape that occurred during Q1 2024/25. The remaining 14 reports (whilst reported during Q1 2024/25) were historical in nature ranging back to 1994. Arguably this statistic demonstrates an increased awareness and confidence that victims have in Police Scotland to report these crimes to police, in the knowledge they will be fully investigated. The detection rate for Rape and Attempt Rape during Q1 is 69.6%, an improvement of 24.9% on the previous Q4 2023/24 detection rate. By the end of Q1 2024/25 there had been 18 Sexual Assaults recorded, reflecting a -10% decrease on LYTD where 20 reports were recorded. The detection rate for Sexual Assault during Q1 is 83.3%, an improvement of 32.74% on the previous Q4 2023/24 detection rate. Similarly, this detection rate remains significantly above the wider Divisional Solvency rate of 64.6%. As highlighted at previous scrutiny boards, these types of enquiry often require forensic examination of evidence to corroborate statements obtained and identify those responsible. Due to an ongoing backlog of items submitted nationally for forensic examination it is anticipated that a number of sexual offences reported to throughout Q4 2023/2024 will subsequently be solved following this critical forensic analysis. Page 60 of 104
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OFFICIAL 15 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 Protecting the most vulnerable people. Drug Supply, Production & Cultivation Drugs Supply Q1 2023/24 Q1 2024/25 % Change Drugs Supply (including possession with intent) 4 11 175% We continue to focus on those who bring harm to our communities, and particularly those who are involved in drugs supply, cultivation/production and the sale of Class A (such Heroin or Cocaine) and Class C (such Valium or Xanax) drugs, as it has been identified that these have led to an increase in drug related deaths. We recognise the national Drugs Deaths statistics in Scotland and are committed to targeting drug dealers, whilst working in partnership along with the Midlothian and East Lothian Drugs Partnership (MELDAP). During Q1 2024/ 25 there were 11 Supply of Drugs offences recorded, with a detection rate of 90.9%, with outstanding enquiries awaiting forensic analysis of items recovered by police. During Q1 2024/25 there were 64 Production, Manufacture or Cultivation of Drugs offences recorded. House searches under warrant have continued and have been successful in recovering drugs, cash and weapons. A number of reports have been submitted and details are contained within the circulated monthly reports. These searches do rely on a steady flow of intelli ence from the community, as well as proactivity by the T’s and wider policing teams. MCAT officers continue to utilise stop and search powers where appropriate to conduct searches on individuals for controlled substances, weapons, and stolen property. Warrant applications for properties are regularly submitted based on intelligence gathered with 7 warrants executed by MCAT during the quarter. These efforts have resulted in an increase of 37% in the value of controlled substances recovered vs the previous quarter with several further warrants planned in Q2. Class A: £25,260 Class B: £12,310 Class C: £0 Police continue to develop drugs intelligence from the local community. Drugs enforcement requires information from sources to build a picture and fill in the pieces of the jigsaw. We rely upon community intelligence, and encourage reporting direct to police by phone, online, in person, via remote reporting sites and / or anonymously through Crimestoppers (0800 555111). Page 61 of 104
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OFFICIAL 16 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 Reducing Violence and Antisocial Behaviour Crimes of Violence (Group 1) Crime Type Q1 2023/24 Q1 2024/25 % Change Q1 2024/25 Detection Rate Group 1 322 251 -22.05 74.1% Serious Assault 12 12 0 66.7% Robbery 9 2 -77.78 50% Common Assault 244 196 -19.67 73.5% Please note that with the introduction of Changes to Recorded Crime Groups, Common Assault is now included within Group 1, where previously this was not, resulting in anticipated increase in YTD data compared to LYTD. Reducing violence and the impact on our communities is a priority for The Police Service of Scotland and within Midlothian we work with partners to reduce the circumstances that can lead to violence while endeavouring to identify and arrest perpetrators as swiftly as possible. All Serious Assaults and Robberies are investigated by the Criminal Investigation Department and solvency for these offences remains high within Midlothian. During Q1 2024/25 there were 12 serious assaults within Midlothian which mirrors the number recorded LYTD. The detection rate is 66.7%, reflecting the wider Divisional detection rate of 66.9%. During Q1 2024/25 there were 2 reported Robberies in Midlothian, this is a -77.78% decrease (7 less) than LYTD. The detection rate is 50%, which is lower than the Divisional detection rate of 70.4%, however as previously highlighted the statistical reduction in this crime is explained by the significantly reduced number of reports received this year (only 2) compared to LYTD, resulting in a significant percentage decrease. During Q1 2024/25 there were 196 recorded Common Assaults in Midlothian presenting an -19.67% reduction (48 fewer) than LYTD. The detection rate is 73.5% and remains well above the wider Divisional detection rate of 58%. There were 11 assaults on Emergency Workers during Q1 2024/25 reflecting a -42.7% reduction on LYTD. However any assault on an Emergency Worker is unacceptable, it is clear that aggressive or threatening behaviour or verbal abuse against Police Scotland or other Emergency Services personnel is simply not part of their duties. We continue to have a weekend pro-active policing plan where our cover shift officers (1700-0300) carry out high visibility patrols in any identified hot spots across the county. In addition to MCAT officers, our response officers are assisted by our Special Constables who regularly work on Friday and Saturday nights. During Q1, our weekend plan included regular visits to licensed premises to ensure adherence to licensing laws by patrons and licensees in order to prevent ASB and violence. Any issues are thereafter fed back to our Licencing Department for follow- up with the individual premises. Repeated issues may result in licenses being restricted or revoked in the most serious of occasions. Page 62 of 104
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OFFICIAL 17 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 Reducing Violence and Antisocial Behaviour Reducing Antisocial Behaviour Indicator Q1 2023/24 Q1 2024/25 % Change Q1 2024/25 Detection Rate Antisocial Behaviour Incidents 172 172 0 Vandalism (Including Malicious Mischief) 172 162 -5.81 25.3% Fire-raising 13 14 7.69 21.4% S38 CJ&L(S) A 2010 163 146 -10.43 76% Midlothian Police continue to tackle Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) in its various forms with our partners. Throughout Q1 2024/25, there were 172 ASB incidents were reported to Police, reflecting the same number recorded LYTD. During Q1 2024/25 a total of 162 Vandalism type offences were recorded, representing a -5.81% (10 fewer) reduction compared LYTD. The detection rate is 25.3%. During Q1 2024/25 a total of 14 Fire-raising type offences were recorded, representing a 7.6% increase (1 more) compared to LYTD. The detection rate is 21.4%, fractionally below the wider Divisional detection rate of 22.8%. During Q1 2024/25 a total of 146 Breach of Peace type offences were recorded, representing a -10.4% (17 fewer) reduction compared to LYTD. The detection rate is 76%. Page 63 of 104
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OFFICIAL 18 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 Reducing Acquisitive Crime Dishonesty (group 3) Crime Type Q1 2023/24 Q1 2024/25 % Change Q1 2024/25 Detection Rate Total Group 3 419 428 2.15 34.1% Given the wide ran e of ‘ cquisitive rimes’ this priority is covered in sections within this report: • Dishonesty (covered in this section) • Housebreaking (covered in next section) Dealing with Acquisitive Crime to protect people by reducing the impacts of theft on individuals and communities remains a priority. During Q1 2024/25, a total of 428 overall Group 3 crimes (including housebreaking crimes) have been recorded within Midlothian. This figure represents 9 more or a -2.15 % increase compared to LYTD. During Q1 detection rate was 34.1% and remains above the wider Divisional detection rate of 30.6%. Page 64 of 104
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OFFICIAL 19 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 Reducing Acquisitive Crime Housebreaking Crime Type* Q1 2023/24 Q1 2024/25 % Change Q1 2024/25 Detection Rate Dwelling HB 21 22 4.76 81.8% Non Dwelling (Sheds, garages) HB 17 9 -47.06 22.2% Other (Business) HB 19 9 -52.63 111.1% *All crime types include attempt thefts. During Q1 2024/25, a total of 22 reports of Theft Housebreaking (including attempts) were recorded. This figure represents a 4.76% (1 more) increase on LYTD. Recognising the harm and concern Housebreaking generates within communities throughout Midlothian, Midlothian Police are committed to targeting those responsible for carrying out this crime. Similar to our approach to Domestic Violence, during Q1 2024/25 I have introduced a dedicated Midlothian Housebreaking Investigation Team. I am pleased to highlight that the detection rate for housebreaking offences during Q1 2024/25 has increased 60% to 81.8% compared to the previous Q4 2023/24 detection rate of 20.14%. During Q1 2024/25 this team arrested and reported a further 21 individuals for Housebreaking offences. During Q1 2024/25, a total of 9 reports of Theft Housebreaking to No Dwellings were recorded. This figure represents a -47.06% (8 fewer) reduction on LYTD. The detection rate is 22.2% compared to the wider detection rate of 17.6%. During Q1 2024/25, a total of 9 reports of Theft Housebreaking to Businesses were recorded. This figure represents a -52.63% (10 fewer) reduction on LYTD. The detection rate is 111.1%. This statistic includes crime that reported in previous quarters but solved via investigations completed Q1 2024/25. MCAT officers continue to Prevent / Deter / Disrupt further Serious & Organised Crime activity with daily bail checks, tasked patrolling and dedicated operations at weekends. Similarly social media messaging is frequently published to raise awareness and highlight simple crime prevention advice, for example ensuring vehicle keys are stored securely and not left on open display next to insecure front doors. Page 65 of 104
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OFFICIAL 20 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 Improving road safety Road Casualties Q1 2023/24 Q1 2024/25 Change Fatal 0 0 - Serious 13 6 -54% Slight 15 7 -53% Total 28 13 -54% Children (aged<16) Killed 0 0 - Children (aged<16) Seriously Injured 0 0 - Road Traffic Offences Q1 2023/24 Q1 2024/25 % Change Dangerous driving offences 11 14 27.27 Driving carelessly 34 16 -52.94 Speeding offences 22 5 -77.27 Unlawful use of a motor vehicle 125 126 0.8 Seat Belt offences 19 10 -47.37 Mobile Phone offences 15 16 6.67 Driving under the influence 28 39 39.29 I am pleased to report that throughout Q1 2024/25 there has been 15 fewer casualties (Fatal, Serious, and Minor) recorded within Midlothian than LYTD. This represents a -54% reduction in the total number of casualties across idlothian’s road networ . During Q1 2024/25, there have been zero fatalities recorded. This statistic mirrors LYTD. During Q1 2024/25, there have been 6 people Seriously Injured, reflecting a -54% reduction (7 fewer incidents) on LYTD. Page 66 of 104
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OFFICIAL 21 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 During Q1 2024/25, there have been zero reports of Children Seriously Injured, reflecting LYTD. Encouragingly there has similarly been a significant -53% reduction in the number of people Slightly Injured (8 fewer) than LYTD. Midlothian Community Policing and MCAT officers carry out frequent road safety and speeding checks, identifying hotspot areas (presenting increased Threat Risk and Harm) based on analytical review of accident data. This above data clearly demonstrates this approach is effective and has a positive impact keeping road users in Midlothian safe. Page 67 of 104
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OFFICIAL 22 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 Tackling Serious & Organised Crime Tackling Serious & Organised Crime The UK threat level remains at Substantial as it has done since February 2022. Midlothian continue to work closely with partner a encies to actively tar et “ ounty ines” nominals that use Midlothian as a base to distribute drugs throughout our community. Our Counter Terrorism Officers have commissioned Smell Steps Consultants to deliver one hour awareness training to Scottish Practitioners on the extreme right wing. These sessions were delivered in June with more sessions booked in for during Q2. Further to this, out Counter Terrorism officers have circulated Cyberbyte and Cyberharm prevention advice to all contest members. This campaign aims to make the public aware of how we all play a part in defeating terrorism, increase reporting if something does not feel right and encourage all event organisers, staff and security to take action to support the CT effort. In December 2023, the Deputy Prime Minister delivered a statement to Parliament on risk and resilience and published the 2023 Implementation Update which set out the progress made against the UK Government esilience ramewor ’s commitments. rivin forward the resilience a enda, the eputy Prime inister announced that the Government would develop a new unified resilience website, a volunteering index and the announcement made in the 2023 Autumn Statement of up to £10 million of new funding for research on risks to the economy and to our public finances. We are pleased to announce that today, on Wednesday 22 May, the public resilience campaign website has been launched - gov.uk/prepare. This website aims to increase public preparedness for emergencies by providing simple and effective advice. We have also developed a partner toolkit, which you can use to signpost people to the website. https://collaborate.resilience.gov.uk/RDService/home/352139/PREPARE-New-Public- Preparedness-Website Page 68 of 104
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OFFICIAL 23 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 Complaints Executive Summary TOTAL COMPLAINT CASES RECEIVED TOTAL NUMBER OF ALLEGATIONS RECEIVED YTD LYTD % Change YTD LYTD % Change Midlothian Council 33 19 73.7% 54 32 68.8% The breakdown below provides further detail on the Allegation Category and Type. As can be seen there has been a 73.7% increase in the overall number of Complaints about the Police when comparing LYTD and YTD. This reflects increased community confidence in reporting concerns regarding police interactions., in the expectation that any complain will be investigated fully and impartially. Table: Allegations received in the Midlothian Council area, by period (Apr – Jun) 1 Allegation Category and Type YTD LYTD % change from LYTD On Duty - TOTAL 33 19 73.7% Assault 3 2 50.0% Discriminatory Behaviour 1 0 x Excessive Force 4 1 300.0% Incivility 7 6 16.7% Irregularity in Procedure 12 9 33.3% Neglect of Duty 2 0 x Other - Criminal 3 0 x Other - Non Criminal 0 1 -100.0% Traffic Irregularity/Offence 1 0 x Quality Of Service - TOTAL 21 13 61.5% Policy/Procedure 6 0 x Service Delivery 4 4 0.0% Service Outcome 11 9 22.2% Grand Total 54 32 68.8% 1 . Data is based on the case received date. Page 69 of 104
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OFFICIAL 24 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 Midlothian CAT team – Q1 (Apr – Jun 2024) Update Activities 1. High Visibility Patrolling: the provision of community support and reassurance by undertaking high visibility vehicle, foot and cycle patrols focusing on identified antisocial behaviour issues. During Q1 2024/2025 MCAT officers maintained a focus on high visibility policing patrols throughout the county. Responding to continuing feedback from the community officers dynamically modified patrol areas to best address concerns and target ongoing and evolving issues. The restricted roads at Croft Street, Dalkeith, Lasswade Primary School, and Strathesk Primary School were regularly patrolled and a number of penalty tickets issued in respect of violation of these restricted roads during school pick up/drop off times. Static road checks were regularly conducted in high traffic areas identifying several road traffic offences and providing a visible presence for the public. Town Centre patrols were conducted both covertly and overtly with a continued focus on antisocial behavior. Engagement was carried out with local retail stores throughout county to gather intelligence on repeat offenders/patterns of crime as well as offer reassurance and support. Social media was utilised more prominently to highlight MCAT initiatives and increase awareness of police action in the area. Following the continued issue surrounding antisocial use of off-road bikes in the region MCAT have continued the development of OP Jewel. A zonal reporting system has been implemented in the Rosewell area to indicate the locations more accurately being used and allow a faster and more targeted response. This has been well received by the community and has yielded two off road bike seizures in Q1 and several associated charges. Regular uniformed attendance at licensed premises has been maintained to ensure the continued adherence to licensing requirements and appropriate behavior of staff and patrons. Positive interaction with those individuals making use of these premises ensures both an awareness of police presence and acts as a form of community engagement, often preventing or deterring antisocial behavior before it occurs. 2. Recidivist Offenders: intelligence led focus on individuals known to engage in antisocial behaviour, drugs use/supply and persistent alcohol abuse, with specific attention being given to persons subject to ASBOs and judicial bails (including curfews). Prevention and disruption of recidivist offending remained a priority for MCAT throughout Q1 and will continue to do so throughout the coming year. Regular and unpredictable bail checks are conducted on all relevant individuals to deter curfew breaches and other associated crimes. 75 curfew checks were conducted in Q1 with 13 breaches recorded, resulting in a compliance rate of 82.66%. This is observed to be a reduction of 5% in compliance versus the previous quarter and has been identified as a particular focus for Q2 as a result. 8 individuals were arrested on warrant by MCAT officers with the majority either on Category A high priority or having multiple outstanding warrants. The outstanding warrants for the Midlothian area are monitored and reviewed regularly with priority individuals identified and sought to ensure community safety and again reduce recidivist offending. Page 70 of 104
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OFFICIAL 25 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 MCAT officers continue to utilise stop and search powers where appropriate to conduct searches on individuals for controlled substances, weapons, and stolen property. Warrant applications for properties are regularly submitted based on intelligence gathered with 7 warrants executed by MCAT during the quarter. These efforts have resulted in an increase of 37% in the value of controlled substances recovered vs the previous quarter with several further warrants planned in Q2. Class A: £25,260 Class B: £12,310 Class C: £0 Bail Curfew Check COMPLIANT 62 Bail Curfew Check FAILED 13 Arrest on warrant 8 Search Person MDA Positive 9 Search Person MDA Negative 0 Search Property MDA Positive 7 Search Property MDA Negative 0 Search Weapons Positive 0 Search Weapons Negative 0 Search Stolen Property Positive 0 Search Stolen Property Negative 0 3. Youth Engagement: actively engage with youths and foster a positive image of the police and their local communities. Act as primary first responders to youth calls, disrupt antisocial behaviour and enforce appropriate legislation firmly but fairly. Maximise alcohol seizures. Engage with partners and CBO colleagues to identify appropriate support and diversionary activities. During Q1 MCAT attended 22 youth related calls throughout Midlothian. This is a marked decrease on the previous quarter indicating the efficacy of the current approach, however a rise is naturally anticipated during Q2 because of the school holidays being in effect during this period. MCAT will be adapting their response and approach during this time, further increasing police presence and proactive youth engagement to deter antisocial behaviour. Page 71 of 104
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OFFICIAL 26 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 Foot and vehicle patrols continue in areas identified as having higher incidences of youth disorder, such as Straiton retail park, Dalkeith town centre/Kings Park area and Bonnyrigg High Street. Regular attention is also paid to other areas youths are known to congregate such as Hardengreen Tesco/MacDonalds, Mayfield and Rosewell. MCAT are in regular discussion with the School Link officers operating in the county to identify individuals involved in antisocial behavior and to tackle potential issues before they arise. Input is also sought from the schools themselves on incidents involving their pupils to allow engagement and reflection to occur and to ensure that suitable support is offered to those youths involved. Social work referrals are submitted in relation to any criminality identified. Youth Calls Attended 22 Alcohol Seizures 0 Children At Risk VPDs Submitted 0 4. Licensed Premises: monitor licensed premises activity and act as first responders to antisocial behavior related incidents whenever possible. Licensed Premises visits are conducted by MCAT officers on a regular basis and any incidents or issues recorded. Compliance remains high with very few issues identified. LP Visit Public House 30 LP Visit Off Sales 1 5. Support Partners & Colleagues: engage with community partners to work together towards the vision and promote joint patrolling. Support divisional colleagues by acting as first responders to antisocial behaviour related incidents that are occurring in real time whenever possible. Instigate and contribute to operations and initiatives linked to the core vision. MCAT officers, alongside community policing, carried out livestock patrols on quad bikes at several locations at the request of our forestry and agricultural partners. They continue to liaise with the local wildlife crime officer to stay apprised of any developing or ongoing issues, assisting wherever possible in addressing any concerns. MCAT continues to liaise with Scottish Fire and Rescue Service in tackling willful fire-raising incidents throughout Midlothian. SFRS expertise is sought on any incidents involving fires to ascertain criminality and to identify offenders. Experience has shown that multiple fires are often attributed to the same repeat offenders and identifying these persons quickly is critical in ensuring both community safety and preventing unnecessary resource load on partner agencies. MCAT also attends at multiple incidents at the request of Scottish Ambulance Services to provide support and reassurance as well as to ensure the safety of our fellow first responders. Page 72 of 104
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OFFICIAL 27 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 The existing relationship with LRT has been maintained and developed which allows a more efficient and targeted response to antisocial behavior involving youths. At the request of MCAT officers LRT notify police Scotland of groups of youths known for previous antisocial behavior should they be aware of any issues in the area. This allows rapid location of offenders but also permits early intervention to deter any escalations. Joint Activity NHS/SAS 0 Joint Activity Local Council 0 Joint Activity SFRS 0 Joint Activity Public Event 0 6. Road Safety: tackle antisocial vehicle use, giving specific attention to inconsiderate vehicle use on the Midlothian road network and the illegal use of off-road motorcycles. Maximise the appropriate use of ASBO warnings and vehicle seizures. As detailed above the continuation and indeed expansion of OP Jewel has continued throughout Q1 to tackle the ongoing issues surrounding antisocial use of off-road bikes. This has continued to be a priority and a network of individuals within the community now work closely with the police to report incidents quickly and accurately. MCAT completed 15 static road checks in areas with high traffic flow and in areas previously identified as having a high incidence of road traffic offending. These checks have consisted of both random and targeted vehicle and document inspections in these areas as well as utilisation of the Handheld Radar Gun. 31 fixed penalty tickets have been issued in respect of offences identified with 3 vehicles seized for having no valid insurance. Proportionate engagement was also carried out with a significant number of motorists provided with corrective advice in respect of their conduct. MCAT continued regular patrols around areas with school restrictions zones. These patrols were completed during the restricted times at these locations with a drop in offences identified, tantamount to the positive impact of these patrols. Static Road Checks 15 Fixed Penalty Tickets (RTA only) 31 Section 165 Seizures 3 Breath Tests Negative (pass) 1 Breath Tests Positive (fail) 2 S5A Drug Wipe Negative (pass) 0 Page 73 of 104
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OFFICIAL 28 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 S5A Drug Wipe Positive (fail) 0 ASBO Seizures 0 Other Incidents and Arrests of Note During Q1 MCAT officers designed and implemented a community outreach program at a total of 16 nurseries throughout Midlothian. This initiative consisted of officers attending at these sites on quad bikes and giving a presentation to the children surrounding the police and general and road safety advice. Following each presentation the children were given the opportunity to ask questions and engage with officers, as well as to sit on the quad bikes and have their photos taken for their families. This engagement took part in smaller groups of 8-12 at a time, allowing a much more personal and involved interaction with officers. In total over 500 children were visited over the course of several weeks. Feedback from the children, staff and the wider community was overwhelmingly positive with multiple requests for this initiative to be repeated and expanded going forwards. Engagement activity assists in increasing public confidence in policing and builds better relations between police and our young persons. Further to this MCAT officers visited at primary schools in the county to provide education on road safety in the form of Handheld Speed Gun checks. During these visits the children were actively encouraged to participate, making use of the equipment, and carrying out road checks of their own. Again, feedback was extremely positive with the children clearly enjoying the chance to get involved and better understand police activities. Focus was maintained on those individuals subject to Warrants with MCAT officers actively targeting and actioning priority apprehension requests from the PF office. The 8 individuals arrested in Q1 had a total of 27 active warrants combined and the apprehension of these persons was critical in preventing recidivist offenders from committing further crimes in the community. Following the implementation of the OP Jewel zonal reporting system in Rosewell MCAT officers responded promptly to a report of off-road bikes around Thornton Farm. Deploying on foot, officers utilised natural cover to successfully detain one rider whose bike was subsequently seized. The youth involved was charged with offences in relation to this incident, and further enquiry utilisin officers’ nowled e of the area yielded CCTV of a second rider resulting in his identification and a further 4 charges. An antisocial behaviour initiative was carried out by MCAT in Q1 at Straiton, Loanhead. This involved engagement with retail and catering establishments in the area and provision of advice to deter offenders and minimise losses. During this initiative a high presence was maintained in the area and several groups of youths engaged with and dispersed, preventing any disorder before it occurred. Planned Activity MCAT officers are actively monitoring and developing intelligence in the community and remain committed to targeting the supply of controlled substances in the area. Multiple persons of interest are identified currently, and efforts are ongoing towards securing Warrants for linked addresses and vehicles. OP Jewel will continue into Q2 and beyond with a view to further reducing antisocial behavior linked to off road motorcycles. The recent introduction of a national Drone unit for Police Scotland has provided Page 74 of 104
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OFFICIAL 29 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 a new opportunity in which this Operation can be expanded. MCAT plan to utilise this new asset in an attempt to track those off-road motorcycles which evade officers on the ground and identify the locations they are stored. If successful, the intention is to effect search warrants with a view to seizing the vehicles involved. Following positive response to the community initiatives implemented in Q1 MCAT are actively seeking to develop further initiatives in the community. A joint Operation with SFRS consisting of school visits and presentations/demonstrations is in early stages and will be further developed during Q2. MCAT plan to liaise with Social Work to discuss appropriate actions in respect of those youths identified in offendin who do not meet the criteria for formal report to the children’s reporter with a view to preventing repeat offending and providing more effective interventions. MCAT will continue to provide enforcement in respect of issues identified as a priority to the community. Speeding and parking issues remain a regular complaint and officers will be increasing their use of speed gun and traffic checks throughout Q2. MCAT officers are proactively seeking additional specialist training in the field of electronic device examination and interrogation. This will allow not only a faster investigation of potentially protracted enquiries but another method of gathering intelligence to better understand the issues and offences occurring in the community. Page 75 of 104
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OFFICIAL 30 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 Appendix Lothian and Scottish Borders Divisional Crime Overview Lothian and Scottish Borders Division 5 Year Average 2024/25 Q1 % Change against 5-year average Detection Rates 2024/25 GROUP 1: NON SEXUAL CRIMES OF VIOLENCE 1,479.4 1,599 8.1 62.4% Murder (excluding culpable homicide at common law) 0.6 1 66.7 200.0% Culpable homicide (at common law) - - - - Culpable Homicide (other) 0.8 2 150.0 100.0% Attempted Murder 4.2 6 42.9 150.0% Serious Assault (of an emergency worker) - - - - Serious Assault (Incl. FGM, culpable & reckless conduct – causing injury) 71.4 83 16.2 69.9% Common Assault (of an emergency worker) 112.4 112 -0.4 100.0% Common Assault 1,148.2 1,209 5.3 58.0% Robbery (including assault with intent to rob) 24.4 27 10.7 70.4% Domestic Abuse (of male) 0.6 - -100.0 - Domestic Abuse (of female) 27.2 62 127.9 74.2% Stalking 27.0 25 -7.4 84.0% Cruel & Unnatural treatment of children 15.6 21 34.6 109.5% Threats and extortion 35.2 41 16.5 2.4% Other group 1 crimes 11.8 10 -15.3 40.0% GROUP 2: SEXUAL CRIMES 298.6 398 33.3 54.8% Rape 50.6 96 89.7 39.6% Attempted Rape 2.6 8 207.7 25.0% Sexual assault 106.8 127 18.9 64.6% Crimes associated with prostitution 0.2 2 900.0 50.0% Indecent photos of children 15.2 29 90.8 89.7% Communicating indecently 29.0 23 -20.7 65.2% Causing to view sexual activity or images 46.6 53 13.7 45.3% Threatening or Disclosure of intimate image 24.0 26 8.3 30.8% Other Group 2 crimes 23.6 34 44.1 64.7% GROUP 3: CRIMES OF DISHONESTY 2,058.8 2,128 3.4 30.6% Housebreaking (incl. attempts) - dwelling house 82.8 87 5.1 42.5% Housebreaking (incl. attempts) - non dwelling 67.6 34 -49.7 17.6% Housebreaking (incl. attempts) - other premises 76.8 64 -16.7 39.1% Opening Lockfast Places - Motor Vehicle 48.6 37 -23.9 13.5% Theft of a motor vehicle 103.4 116 12.2 33.6% Theft from a Motor Vehicle (Insecure etc.) 94.8 63 -33.5 28.6% Attempt theft of motor vehicle 8.4 10 19.0 30.0% Opening Lockfast Places - NOT Motor Vehicle 28.8 31 7.6 25.8% Common theft 581.0 534 -8.1 18.7% Theft by shoplifting 528.8 720 36.2 42.4% Fraud 292.6 316 8.0 15.2% Page 76 of 104
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OFFICIAL 31 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 Other Group 3 Crimes 145.2 116 -20.1 50.0% GROUP 4: DAMAGE AND RECKLESS BEHAVIOUR 1,018.0 1,033 1.5 27.3% Fireraising 70.4 79 12.2 22.8% Vandalism (including reckless damage etc) 888.2 897 1.0 25.3% Reckless conduct (with firearms) 1.0 - -100.0 - Culpable and reckless conduct (not with firearms) 56.8 53 -6.7 64.2% Other Group 4 Crimes 1.6 4 150.0 75.0% GROUP 5: CRIMES AGAINST SOCIETY 1,103.4 1,111 0.7 91.7% Possession firearm/offensive weapon/knife in prison (not used in crime) 5.0 8 60.0 75.0% Possession offensive weapon/knife in school (not used in crime) 2.4 4 66.7 75.0% Possession offensive weapon/knife in a private place (not used in crime) 0.8 7 775.0 71.4% Possession of a corrosive substance (not used in crime) - - - - Other possession of offensive weapon/knife (not used in crime) 87.0 63 -27.6 92.1% Possession firearm/offensive weapon/knife in prison (used in criminal activity) 2.0 - -100.0 - Possession offensive weapon/knife in school (used in criminal activity) 0.4 2 400.0 100.0% Possession offensive weapon/knife in a private place (used in criminal activity) 0.4 - -100.0 - Possession of corrosive substance (used in criminal activity) - - - - Other possession of offensive weapon/knife NEC (used in criminal activity) 60.8 119 95.7 67.2% Production, manufacture or cultivation of drugs 14.0 5 -64.3 160.0% Supply of drugs (incl possession with intent) 58.0 53 -8.6 86.8% Bringing drugs into prison 4.2 27 542.9 18.5% Other drugs offences (incl. importation) 3.0 9 200.0 33.3% Possession of drugs 434.8 319 -26.6 101.9% Offences relating to serious and organised crime 3.2 2 -37.5 50.0% Bail offences (other than absconding) 230.6 266 15.4 96.6% Other crimes against public justice 192.8 224 16.2 96.4% Other crimes against society 4.0 3 -25.0 66.7% GROUP 6: ANTISOCIAL OFFENCES 1,060.0 1,036 -2.3 73.7% Breach of the Peace 25.6 33 28.9 97.0 Threatening & abusive behaviour 950.8 915 -3.8 71.1 Hate aggravated conduct (incl stirring up hatred) 34.0 45 32.4 84.4 Drunk and incapable 8.2 6 -26.8 100.0 Consume alcohol in designated place (local bye-laws) 8.6 7 -18.6 100.0 Other alcohol related offences 7.8 13 66.7 100.0 Urinating 25.0 17 -32.0 100.0 GROUP 7: MISCELLANEOUS OFFENCES 347.8 342 -1.7 55.6 Wildlife offences 15.8 15 -5.1 20.0 Page 77 of 104
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OFFICIAL 32 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 Offences involved animals (not wildlife) 31.0 30 -3.2 60.0 Community and public order offences 227.4 254 11.7 51.6 Environmental offences 9.8 4 -59.2 75.0 Licensing offences 34.4 27 -21.5 88.9 Other misc. offences 29.4 12 -59.2 91.7 GROUP 8: ROAD TRAFFIC OFFENCES 1,903.4 1,605 -15.7 75.9 Dangerous driving offences 66.8 57 -14.7 73.7 Driving carelessly 159.8 97 -39.3 75.3 Driving under the influence 141.6 156 10.2 105.8 Speeding offences 159.6 12 -92.5 100.0 Seatbelt offences 40.4 19 -53.0 100.0 Mobile phone offences 52.4 26 -50.4 100.0 Unlawful use of a motor vehicle 747.6 479 -35.9 98.5 Vehicle defect offences 49.0 49 0.0 98.0 Drivers neglect of traffic directions (NOT pedestrian crossings) 87.2 196 124.8 84.2 Road traffic offences (involving bicycle/tricycle) 3.4 1 -70.6 100.0 Other Group 8 offences 395.6 513 29.7 57.7 Page 78 of 104
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OFFICIAL 33 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 Midlothian Recorded Crime Overview Midlothian 5 Year Average 2024/25 Q1 % change against 5 year average Detection Rates 2024/25 GROUP 1: NON SEXUAL CRIMES OF VIOLENCE 263 251 -4.6 74.1% Murder (excluding culpable homicide at common law) - - - - Culpable homicide (at common law) - - - - Culpable Homicide (other) - - - - Attempted Murder 0.6 1 66.7 100% Serious Assault (of an emergency worker) - - - - Serious Assault (Incl. FGM, culpable & reckless conduct – causing injury) 13.4 12 -10.4 66.7% Common Assault (of an emergency worker) 19.2 11 -42.7 100% Common Assault 204.4 196 -4.1 73.5% Robbery (including assault with intent to rob) 5.8 2 -65.5 50% Domestic Abuse (of male) 0.4 - -100 - Domestic Abuse (of female) 3.4 17 400 94.1% Stalking 3.4 4 17.6 75% Cruel & Unnatural treatment of children 5.4 1 -81.5 100% Threats and extortion 5.4 5 -7.4 - Other group 1 crimes 1.6 2 25 50% GROUP 2: SEXUAL CRIMES 54.8 84 53.3 70.2% Rape 7.6 23 202.6 69.6% Attempted Rape 0.2 - -100.0 - Sexual assault 20.0 18 -10.0 83.3% Crimes associated with prostitution 0.2 1 400.0 - Indecent photos of children 4.4 9 104.5 88.9% Communicating indecently 5.8 5 -13.8 40% Causing to view sexual activity or images 8.2 11 34.1 63.6% Threatening or Disclosure of intimate image 4.4 8 81.8 50% Other Group 2 crimes 4.0 9 125.0 77.8% GROUP 3: CRIMES OF DISHONESTY 422.8 428 1.2 34.1% Housebreaking (incl. attempts) - dwelling house 15.8 22 39.2 81.8% Housebreaking (incl. attempts) - non dwelling 22.4 9 -59.8 22.2% Housebreaking (incl. attempts) - other premises 15.6 9 -42.3 111.1% Opening Lockfast Places - Motor Vehicle 6.0 5 -16.7 - Theft of a motor vehicle 21.6 20 -7.4 45% Theft from a Motor Vehicle (Insecure etc.) 13.2 16 21.2 18.8% Attempt theft of motor vehicle 1.0 2 100.0 50% Opening Lockfast Places - NOT Motor Vehicle 5.0 2 -60.0 100% Common theft 97.0 121 24.7 15.7% Theft by shoplifting 142.2 130 -8.6 43.1% Fraud 54.6 64 17.2 15.6% Other Group 3 Crimes 28.4 28 -1.4 57.1% Page 79 of 104
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OFFICIAL 34 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 GROUP 4: DAMAGE AND RECKLESS BEHAVIOUR 189.8 185 -2.5 28.1% Fireraising 11.2 14 25.0 21.4% Vandalism (including reckless damage etc) 164.2 162 -1.3 25.3% Reckless conduct (with firearms) - - 0.0 - Culpable and reckless conduct (not with firearms) 14.0 7 -50.0 100% Other Group 4 Crimes 0.4 2 400.0 50% GROUP 5: CRIMES AGAINST SOCIETY 422.8 428 1.2 99% Possession firearm/offensive weapon/knife in prison (not used in crime) 15.8 22 39.2 - Possession offensive weapon/knife in school (not used in crime) 22.4 9 -59.8 75% Possession offensive weapon/knife in a private place (not used in crime) 15.6 9 -42.3 50% Possession of a corrosive substance (not used in crime) 6.0 5 -16.7 - Other possession of offensive weapon/knife (not used in crime) 21.6 20 -7.4 90% Possession firearm/offensive weapon/knife in prison (used in criminal activity) 13.2 16 21.2 - Possession offensive weapon/knife in school (used in criminal activity) 1.0 2 100.0 100% Possession offensive weapon/knife in a private place (used in criminal activity) 5.0 2 -60.0 - Possession of corrosive substance (used in criminal activity) 97.0 121 24.7 - Other possession of offensive weapon/knife NEC (used in criminal activity) 142.2 130 -8.6 100% Production, manufacture or cultivation of drugs 54.6 64 17.2 - Supply of drugs (incl possession with intent) 28.4 28 -1.4 90.9% Bringing drugs into prison 15.8 22 39.2 - Other drugs offences (incl. importation) 22.4 9 -59.8 42.9% Possession of drugs 15.6 9 -42.3 120.4% Offences relating to serious and organised crime 6.0 5 -16.7 - Bail offences (other than absconding) 21.6 20 -7.4 98.3% Other crimes against public justice 13.2 16 21.2 92.3% Other crimes against society 1.0 2 100.0 66.7% GROUP 6: ANTISOCIAL OFFENCES 197 172 -12.7 77.9% Breach of the Peace 5.0 7 40.0 100% Threatening & abusive behaviour 178.6 146 -18.3 76% Hate aggravated conduct (incl stirring up hatred) 4.0 7 75.0 57.1% Drunk and incapable 0.8 - -100.0 - Consume alcohol in designated place (local bye-laws) 3.6 3 -16.7 100% Other alcohol related offences 1.6 4 150.0 100% Urinating 3.4 5 47.1 100% GROUP 7: MISCELLANEOUS OFFENCES 68 61 -10.3 57.4% Wildlife offences 1.8 - -100.0 - Offences involved animals (not wildlife) 6.0 6 0.0 83.3% Page 80 of 104
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OFFICIAL 35 | P a g e OFFICIAL Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.4 Community and public order offences 48.4 48 -0.8 52.1% Environmental offences 3.6 1 -72.2 100% Licensing offences 7.0 6 -14.3 66.7% Other misc. offences 1.2 - -100.0 - GROUP 8: ROAD TRAFFIC OFFENCES 327.8 347 5.9 77.5% Dangerous driving offences 11.8 14 18.6 71.4% Driving carelessly 28.2 16 -43.3 68.8% Driving under the influence 27.2 39 43.4 112.8% Speeding offences 13.4 5 -62.7 100% Seatbelt offences 6.8 10 47.1 100% Mobile phone offences 9.8 16 63.3 100% Unlawful use of a motor vehicle 124.8 126 1.0 94.4% Vehicle defect offences 10.8 14 29.6 100% Drivers neglect of traffic directions (NOT pedestrian crossings) 8.8 3 -65.9 100% Road traffic offences (involving bicycle/tricycle) 0.4 - -100.0 35.6% Other Group 8 offences 85.8 104 21.2 77.5% Page 81 of 104
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1 Midlothian Quarter 1 Performance Report 1st April – 30th June 2024 Page 83 of 104
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2 Midlothian Quarter 1 Performance Report Table of Contents 1 Midlothian Total Incidents Page 3 2 Deliberate Fires Page 4 3 Accidental Fires Page 5 4 Dwelling Fires Page 6 5 Non-Domestic Fires Page 7 6 Fire Casualties Page 8 7 Special Services Page 9 8 Unintentional Injury or Harm Page 9 9 Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals Page 10 10 Engagement & Station Activities Page 11 About the statistics within this report The activity totals and other statistics quoted within this report are published in the interests of transparency and openness. They are provisional in nature and subject to change because of ongoing quality assurance and review. Because all statistics quoted are provisional there may be a difference in the period totals quoted in our reports after local publication which result from revisions or additions to the data in our systems. The Scottish Government publishes official statistics each year which allow for comparisons to be made over longer periods of time. Page 84 of 104
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3 1. Midlothian: Total Incidents ▪ During the first quarter of 2024/25 SFRS responded to a total of 269 incidents in the Midlothian locality. This is a significant decrease from the 2023/24 Q1 total of 347 which can largely be attributed to our UFAS reduction policy. Type of Incident 2023/24 Q1 2024/25 Q1 Difference Fire 131 86 -45 Special Service 57 62 +5 False Alarms 159 121 -38 ▪ Q1 of 2024/25 saw an overall reduction of 22% in incidents attended in the Midlothian compared to last year’s Q1 total. ▪ The changes to our Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals (UFAS) response from 1st July 2023 has seen a decrease of 24% in the number of False Alarm incidents attended by our operational crews. Page 85 of 104
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4 ▪ The figure of 50 Deliberate Fires in Q1 2024/25 shows a decrease of 34% from the same period last and the lowest number of incidents attended in the past 5 years. ▪ Patterns and trends are identified through our collaborative work with partner agencies and our community safety engagement activities in the area. ▪ Data is interrogated and where an increase in incidents in a particular area is identified, our Community Action Team engage with partners and local stakeholders to deliver bespoke education and engagement events. 2. Deliberate Fires Page 86 of 104
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5 ▪ The figure of 36 accidental fires for Q1 2024/25 has seen a decrease of 19 incidents from the previous year’s figures. This is the lowest number of accidental fires attended in the preceding 5 years, during this quarter. ▪ SFRS implement a Post Domestic Incident Response (PDIR) procedure at each incident within a domestic property, where we provide Home Fire Safety Advice and if required, install linked smoke detection in eligible properties – those being owner occupied and high-risk, in compliance with the new Scottish Government Legislation. ▪ Our Make the Call campaign is appealing to communities across Scotland to help save a life and consider home fire safety when checking in on vulnerable neighbours, patients, friends and family members and to put them in touch with SFRS wherever possible using the free Home Fire Safety Visit phoneline. 3. Accidental Fires Page 87 of 104
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6 4. Dwelling Fires • There were 15 Dwelling fires in Q1 of 2024/25. This is a 27% increase in the number of dwelling fires attended from last year’s quarter. • As of February 2022, it is a legislative requirement for every home to have interlinked fire alarms. This enhancement in fire detection within the home will hopefully see a downward trend. • Operational crews conduct Post Domestic Incident Response (PDIR) after every domestic incident. This provides crews the opportunity to give home fire safety advice to not only the dwelling affected by fire but also the neighbouring properties. • A referral system through partnership working allows for Home Fire Safety Visits to be generated via local authorities, occupational therapists, NHS, energy companies etc. This further provides opportunities for crews and our dedicated Community Action Team to educate occupiers about fire safety in the home. Page 88 of 104
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7 5. Non-Domestic Fires • Operational crews attended 6 more incidents of this nature compared to the same quarter last year. Operational crews and Fire Safety Enforcement teams engage with stakeholders and communities where possible to reduce fire incidents within these premises. • If operational crews identify concerns in relevant premises during operational turnouts these are referred to our Fire Safety Enforcement team for further investigation. • Our Fire Safety Enforcement teams conduct regular audits in non-domestic premises covered under the Fire Scotland 2005 Act to improve fire safety in these buildings. They also conduct Post Fire Audits in relevant premises to investigate if fire safety was adhered to in line with legislative requirements. Page 89 of 104
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8 6. Fire Casualties • There was 1 fire casualty in total, which was a result of a dwelling fire. The figure comprises of treatment for burns and smoke inhalation. • Partner case studies are conducted when serious injury/fatality occurs due to fire. This provides a framework to establish each agencies involvement (if any) prior to the incident and enables shared learning moving forward. • Any moderate to serious injuries incurred at domestic fires are investigated by our Fire Investigation team. Findings that can be attributed to poor fire safety within the home are used to inform a period of community engagement where our operational crews, Community Action Team and partner agencies provide vital education and reassurance within our local communities. Page 90 of 104
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9 7. Special Service Incidents • During the Q1 period, SFRS attended 62 special service incidents, ranging from flooding, water rescues to hazardous materials. • Operational crews are attending more humanitarian and inter agency incidents such as forcing entry to premises of medical cases. 8. Unintentional Injury or Harm Page 91 of 104
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10 • There was a total of 8 Special Service Casualties for Midlothian in Q1. 3 were from incidents involving vehicles with 3 incidents attended assisting other agencies including 1 fatality. • Our operational crews and Community Action Team can identify those most vulnerable during HFSV’s and trigger our social care referral policy. This aims to put in place measures to reduce risk of harm at home out with fire safety. • Our road and water safety campaigns/initiatives look to inform and educate the public about good practice on roads and in water as well as highlighting the dangers associated. 9. Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals • The figure of 45 for Q1 2024/25 shows a significant decrease of 54% UFAS incidents from the same period last year. The changes to our Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals (UFAS) response from 1st July 2023 has seen a significant reduction in the number of False Alarm incidents attended by our operational crews. This allows us to focus on core activities such as training and community safety engagement. Page 92 of 104
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11 10. Prevention and Protection & Station Activities Youth Engagement The Community Action team carried out the following actions in relation to youth engagement over the Q1 reporting period: • 2 Day Fireskills course to Pupils from Dalkeith High School • Fire Safety Talk to Community &Lifelong Learning Education+12 Group at Edinburgh College (Dalkeith Campus). • Road Safety & Fire related Anti-social behaviour to Y2K180 Group at Penicuik High School • SFRS established and co-chair Task and Co-ordination group within Midlothian with the purpose of sharing information with partner agencies to tackle anti-social behaviour within the community. Summer Thematic Action Plan The Summer Thematic action plan launched in Q1 with the following aims: • Promote Water Safety. • Reduce outdoor fires involving Grass/heather or Forested Areas. • Reduce fire related anti-social behaviour and deliberate primary and secondary fires. • Reduce number of fires involving rubbish/refuse. • Promote fire safety within seasonal sleeping risks-Hotels, guest houses/boarding houses and Airbnb accommodation. Engagement 119 Home Fire Safety Visits were conducted in the Midlothian in Q1, targeting high risk occupiers providing fire safety advice in the home. The Community Action Team has conducted various engagement activities such as leaflet Drops, fire skills courses, anti-social behaviour engagement, partner risk recognition courses and school engagement. Make The Call Campaign The Service’s Make the Call campaign is tasking families, friends, and carers to make a ten-minute phone call to book a free Home Fire Safety Visit to help save a life. Intelligence gathered from fire investigations has shown that people over the age of 50, who smoke and either have mobility issues, live alone, or use medical oxygen, are more likely to be injured or killed by a fire in the home. However, communities can put firefighters and SFRS specialists in touch with anyone they thinks is vulnerable by making a ten- minute phone call, sending a single text or by filling out an online form with the person’s consent. Page 93 of 104
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Licensing Protective Services - Police and Fire Board Quarter 4 report Other civic licences applied for during Q1: Liquor Licensing Applications - 179 granted HMO Applications - 1 granted Vehicle Applications - 39 granted Driver Applications - 23 granted Public Entertainment Licences - 10 granted Window Cleaner Licences - 9 granted Street Trader Licences - 11 Tattoo Licences - 3 Cinema Licence - 1 Metal Dealers Licence - 1 granted Second Hand Car Dealers Licence - 2 granted Market Operators Licence - 2 granted 0 122 101 106 180 Q1 23/24 Q2 23/24 Q3 23/24 Q4 23/24 Q1 24/25 Number of Liquor Licence applications received 99 116 100 141 102 Q1 23/24 Q2 23/24 Q3 23/24 Q4 23/24 Q1 24/25 Number of Civic Government Licence applications 61% 65% 76% 92% 95% Q1 23/24 Q2 23/24 Q3 23/24 Q4 23/24 Q1 24/25 Percentage of Civic Government Licence applications determined 1% 1% 0% 0% 0% Q1 23/24 Q2 23/24 Q3 23/24 Q4 23/24 Q1 24/25 Percentage of Civic Government Act applications referred to the General Purposes Committee 99% of liquor licence applications were determined this quarter. Police, Frie and Rescue Board Monday 26 August 2024 Item No: 5.6 Page 95 of 104
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4 2 1 0 0 Q1 23/24 Q2 23/24 Q3 23/24 Q4 23/24 Q1 24/25 Number of Business Workplace Health and Safety proactive inspections 3 1 1 0 0 Q1 23/24 Q2 23/24 Q3 23/24 Q4 23/24 Q1 24/25 Number of Business Workplace Health and Safety Improvement notices served 0 0 0 1 0 Q1 23/24 Q2 23/24 Q3 23/24 Q4 23/24 Q1 24/25 Number of Business Workplace Health and Safety Prohibition notices served Workplace Health and Safety 18 12 22 9 10 Q1 23/24 Q2 23/24 Q3 23/24 Q4 23/24 Q1 24/25 Number of workplace safety RIDDOR reports received No RIDDOR related visits took place to investigate business workplace health and safety incidents this quarter. Page 96 of 104
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10 25 8 0 20 1 3 1 2 Q1 23/24 Q2 23/24 Q3 23/24 Q4 23/24 Q1 24/25 Number of Private water supplies sampled inspected 66 36 48 35 66 19 3 4 7 18 Q1 23/24 Q2 23/24 Q3 23/24 Q4 23/24 Q1 24/25 Number of Abandoned Vehicles reported notices served 4 3 3 6 4 Q1 23/24 Q2 23/24 Q3 23/24 Q4 23/24 Q1 24/25 Number of Abandoned Vehicles which have been removed for destruction Public Health 86 38 32 42 43 Q1 23/24 Q2 23/24 Q3 23/24 Q4 23/24 Q1 24/25 Number of Planning Application consultations received 360 Public Health Service requests were received from Midlothian residents and businesses this quarter. 96% of Public Health complaints received a first response within timescales this quarter. 116 Public Health Service requests were received from internal sources this quarter. 2 Environmental Protection Abatement 1990 Notices were served this quarter. 26 short term let Licences issued this quarter. 13 short term let Applications received this quarter. Page 97 of 104
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Civil Contingencies and events Multi-agency Exercises, Training, Presentations and Work streams: Team Members Participated in the following. Where appropriate to their areas of work, invitations were extended to colleagues in other services and partners: • Planning for and participation in a Torness related exercise in June 2024. • Lothian and Borders Local Resilience Partnership non-routine inputs including Met Office.Extreme Heat Awareness Team Members undertook/facilitated: • Monitoring and circulation of information and liaison with services regarding the Public Switched Telephone Network switch-off (in conjunction with Digital Services). • Obtained 11 places so far on the 2024 series of Crisis Management training, 4 of which were within the Q1 24/25 period. Scope for more nominations to be submitted. • In collaboration with the Cyber Security Information Governance and Compliance Manager, colleagues from the Scottish Government and Digital Office Scotland: An awareness session on the impacts of a cyber- attack and the lessons that could be learned from others. Delivered to the June Leadership Forum with over 50 people in attendance. • In collaboration with Business Services (Operational Support) developed a wraparound LearnPro module to link to the Home Office Prevent e-learning module thereby capturing data on compliance. • Service representation on briefing relating to Anti-Terrorism Traffic Regulation Orders. Note: Resources remain as they were last quarter, therefore challenges remain in progressing all necessary work streams. However, a service review in progress. Plans and Procedures: Plans and Procedures updated this quarter: • Emergency Contacts Directory (reflecting staff changes) Plans/plan updates in progress (in some cases awaiting guidance from external partners): • Midlothian Council generic Emergency Plan. This document outlines internal emergency management arrangements and multi-agency partnership relationships. • Operation UNICORN (and associated arrangements). Scottish Government have advised that national planning arrangements are underway. Meantime, we have the basics in place, based on previous experience. • Corporate Business Continuity (BC) Plan. An update to the Corporate Business Continuity Policy was provided to Corporate Management Team members in Q4 23/24. However, learning from a Cyber Security event facilitated by Scottish Government in June 2024 and the experiences of other organisations will now be incorporated into an expanded document, which will also link in with the work being done by Digital Services on the technical response to a cyber-attack. Page 98 of 104
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Public events Ongoing, routine representation at/participation in: • Local Resilience Partnership meetings – core group, sub-groups and Short Life Working Groups as required. • Lothian and Borders CONTEST group meetings representing the Midlothian CONTEST and Prevent SPOC. • Internal meetings requiring a Contingency Planning input, including Care for People, Estates Management Safety Groups, internal CONTEST Group (and providing on-going support to the Midlothian SPOC), support for Business Continuity activities. • Local Authority Resilience Group Scotland (LARGS) - networking meetings of resilience practitioners. Ongoing monitoring of events and/or live incidents – disseminating information internally and liaison with external organisations as required. To note: Following attendance at meetings, seminars, presentations, training sessions, a summary of all pertinent information is forwarded to senior manager(s) and other colleagues as appropriate. Invitations are also forwarded where the subject might be of direct interest to other services/partners. 17 15 7 8 15 Q1 23/24 Q2 23/24 Q3 23/24 Q4 23/24 Q1 24/25 Number of organisations engaged with the Safety Advisory Group or similar Completion of Safety Advisory Group planning for all spring Gala Days, processions and 3 commercial events. Planning timetable for Q2 events have been drafted. Ongoing work with organisers to standardise Risk Assessment and Event Plans. Page 99 of 104
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1 0 0 0 0 Q1 23/24 Q2 23/24 Q3 23/24 Q4 23/24 Q1 24/25 Number of Food Hygiene Improvement notices served 4 2 0 3 1 Q1 23/24 Q2 23/24 Q3 23/24 Q4 23/24 Q1 24/25 Number of Food Law Remedial Action notices served 101 85 50 76 42 Q1 23/24 Q2 23/24 Q3 23/24 Q4 23/24 Q1 24/25 Number of Food Law interventions carried out (food hygiene and food standards) Food Hygiene and Standards 89% 86% 100% 100% 33% Q1 23/24 Q2 23/24 Q3 23/24 Q4 23/24 Q1 24/25 Percentage of priority 1 and 2 premises receiving completed food law interventions in line with the Service Plan 27 23 14 33 52 Q1 23/24 Q2 23/24 Q3 23/24 Q4 23/24 Q1 24/25 Number of Food/non-food samples taken 59 Food law service requests were received from Midlothian residents and businesses this quarter. (Includes food safety and food standards). 92% of food related service requests from Midlothian residents and businesses were responded to within the target response time of 10 working days this quarter (Includes food safety and food standards). Page 100 of 104
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58 56 44 50 46 Q1 23/24 Q2 23/24 Q3 23/24 Q4 23/24 Q1 24/25 Number of consumer complaints received by Trading Standards 33 29 32 39 38 Q1 23/24 Q2 23/24 Q3 23/24 Q4 23/24 Q1 24/25 Number of intelligence logs input to Intelligence Database (IDB) 0 0 1 2 1 Q1 23/24 Q2 23/24 Q3 23/24 Q4 23/24 Q1 24/25 Number of cases reported to Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service Trading Standards 1 7 9 3 12 Q1 23/24 Q2 23/24 Q3 23/24 Q4 23/24 Q1 24/25 Number of business advice requests received by Trading Standards Trading Standards Campaigns/Joint working/Initiative details: Trading Standards joined Police at a vehicle road stop on the 12th of April looking for rogue traders. 100% of Consumer complaints were responded to within 5 working days this quarter. 88% of Consumer complaints were completed within 14 days this quarter. 100% of Business advice requests were responded to within 5 working days this quarter. 100% of Business advice requests were completed within 14 days this quarter. Develop and implement a Trusted Trader Scheme: The scheme has been approved. It is anticipated it will be implemented in 2024/25. Page 101 of 104
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Trading Standards 11.0% 16.5% 20.5% 11.0% 9.0% Q1 23/24 Q2 23/24 Q3 23/24 Q4 23/24 Q1 24/25 Percentage of businesses registered for tobacco/vapes in Midlothian visited 1.4% 0.0% 1.0% 0.0% 0.0% Q1 23/24 Q2 23/24 Q3 23/24 Q4 23/24 Q1 24/25 Percentage of businesses registered for tobacco/vapes in Midlothian where a test purchase was carried out 20.0% 23.9% 26.8% 27.5% 20.0% Q1 23/24 Q2 23/24 Q3 23/24 Q4 23/24 Q1 24/25 Percentage of planned inspections achieved in line with the Service Plan (cumulative) 29 Trading Standards Primary Inspections were carried out this quarter. This year 8 farms and smallholdings are to be assessed for animal health and welfare. 16 5 2 1 1 Q1 23/24 Q2 23/24 Q3 23/24 Q4 23/24 Q1 24/25 Number of interventions carried out regarding tobacco and nicotine containing products A total of 136 premises are believed to be registered and selling tobacco and/or vapes at 01/04/24. 12 were visited this quarter. Page 102 of 104
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Environmental Crime Pilot – Fixed Penalty Notices 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 7 0 0 1 Cigarette Butt (£80) Rolled up Cigarette (£80) Dog Fouling (£80+) Packaging (£80) Fast Food Related (£80) Discarded Food (£80) Flytipping Business (£200) Flytipping Domestic (£200) Confectionary Pack (£80) Food Wrapper (£80) Literature Fixed Penalty Notices issued in Q1 24/25 Page 103 of 104
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