CRIME was put under the spotlight when members of the Community Planning West Dunbartonshire Management Board gathered in Garshake Road for their latest meeting.

Delivering the latest crime stats for the West Dunbartonshire area, on behalf of Chief Superintendent Hazel Hendren, was Chief Inspector Donald Leitch.

In Thursday's report to members he told them how there had been a "significant decrease" in the numbers of all crimes committed in the first quarter of this financial year (April to June), leading to an 18.8 per cent decrease and 29.8 per cent below the five-year average.

It equated to 571 fewer crimes being recorded in the area.

Inspector Leith said the report was "positive" overall but there were "issues" in relation to youth disorder but the hard work to combat it "continues."

Inspector Leith also told how acquisitive crime is "significantly down" on last year's figures with a decrease of 23.6 per cent, thanks to "significant arrests" made by detectives.

One alarming increase was the number of sexual crimes committed compared to the same period last year- a 67.5 per cent increase.

However, Inspector Leith pointed out that the spike in figures was partly down to historical reporting of offences.

And the report stated: "For the second year in succession the division is experiencing an increase in reports of sexual crime.

"Of the reports made this year, almost 40 per cent are non-recent/historic.

"The fact that victims are finding the courage to report these crimes, some many years after the event, is to be welcomed.

"The reasons for this are possible wide ranging, however, there is no doubt that media reporting of high profile cases and historic crimes gives victims confidence to come forward.

"This allows investigations to be carried out and potentially bring perpetrators to justice,

"It also allows for victims, with their consent, to be referred to partner agencies who can offer support and counselling."

Another reason for the increase is also down to offenders, particularly children and young people, sending indecent communications, which the report warned was a trend "likely to continue" due to the fast pace change of technology.

Inspector Leith said: "We are working as hard as we can and continuing inquiries and there are currently areas that we need to focus on."

Inspector Leith also revealed how three incidents of bogus calling took place in the region, one online, one over the phone and one in person, over the three-month period.

However, their actions are being put in the spotlight thanks to an alert system which allows police to text information about crime to people living in affected areas.

The scheme is piloting in two areas: Parkhall and Silverton, in Dumbarton.

For those who sign up for text or email alerts, they will get targeted information, such as reports of thefts in the area or doorstep crime.

Inspector Leith added: "It's absolutely despicable these crimes but this system helps get the message out there and it makes sure that information and advice out there."