Domestic violence increases 25% last year despite drop in violent crime

Figures show that reports to the police about cases of domestic violence increased by 25% in the last year, despite a slight decrease in violent crime overall.

Statistics published by the Scottish Government show a jump from 1,845 reports under the Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act in the year to September 2023 to 2,313 in September this year.

But overall non-sexual violence crimes decreased by 1%, from 71,571 to 71,002.

Recorded cases of rape and attempted rape increased by 10%, from 2,501 to 2,746, despite an overall reduction in sexual crimes from 14,704 to 14,651.

Dishonesty offenses increased by 4% due to a 25% increase in shoplifting reports, while dangerous and reckless behavior decreased by 5%.

Crimes against society – which include drug-related crimes and weapons possession – increased by 2%, and “crimes against public justice,” which encompasses crimes such as resisting arrest and attempts to pervert the course of justice , increased by 11%.

The Scottish Conservatives said the figures were the result of the Scottish Government’s “weak justice agenda and sustained cuts to policing”.

“It is particularly alarming to see an increase in the number of cases of rape and sexual assault, which have increased significantly over the course of a year,” said the party’s justice spokesman, Liam Kerr.

“SNP ministers must put the needs of victims first, rather than those of dangerous criminals whose punishment often does not fit the nature of their crimes.

“Those who work in retail will not be surprised to see shoplifting crimes soaring, and those responsible know they will often receive little more than a slap on the wrist.

“This crime wave comes against a backdrop where the SNP presides over the lowest number of officers since 2008, and many crimes are no longer even investigated.

“As the SNP prepares to launch plans to release more prisoners, these figures should be a wake-up call to them.”

The Scottish Government has been contacted for comment.

Follow STV News on WhatsApp

Scan the QR code on your mobile device to get the latest news from around the country.