THE total number of crimes recorded by the policing division which covers Dumbarton and the Vale has fallen slightly during the last three months compared to the same period last year.

According to Police Scotland figures published today (Monday) there were 148 fewer crimes across Argyll and West Dunbartonshire in the second quarter of 2021/22, down from 3,491 to 3,343 - a drop of more than four per cent.

Drugs-related crimes are down by 285 while there were 254 fewer incidents of crimes involving the possession of drugs. Crimes relating to the supply of drugs are also down 26.

The statistics reveal that housebreakings have dropped by more than 25 per cent with 40 fewer incidents and there were more than 2,000 fewer recorded crimes of anti-social behaviour, down 27 per cent against the same reporting period last year.

Total sexual crimes are down by three per cent from 226 to 219, however, detections in the area are up from 92 to 107 against the same period.

Divisional Commander, Chief Superintendent John Paterson, said: "While I am pleased that recorded crime is down across Argyll and West Dunbartonshire, I give my personal assurance that the police officers and staff who work tirelessly every day in our communities will continue to do their very best to address the priorities our communities want us to focus on.

“As we head into the festive period, I also want to reassure the public that there will be a visible police presence on our streets and we will continue to work with our partners to make sure that Argyll and West Dunbartonshire remains a safe place to live, work and visit.”

For the West Dunbartonshire council area the total number of crimes recorded has fallen from 2,265 to 2,139 although the number of domestic abuse incidents recorded has risen slightly from 723 to 740. Drugs crimes have dropped by almost a third (577 to 399).

According to the national picture, overall sexual crime continues to be recorded at a high level with 7,519 reported in the first two quarters of 2021-22, up 13.4 per cent year on year (6,629) and up 17.3 per cent on the five year average.