Chief Superintendent and commander of Dumfries and Galloway Police Division Carol McGuire said the drop in sexual assaults – with recorded incidents down from 138 to 115 against the same period last year – was an “encouraging picture”.
Total drugs crimes have also decreased with a recorded drop in possession of drugs from 885 to 770 against the same reporting period last year.
Speeding, careless driving and drink and drugs driving are also down and there have been 76 fewer incidents of vandalism and malicious mischief.
However, recorded incidents of offensive and bladed weapons are up by 64 from 112 to 176 and fraud remains a national threat with 72 more incidents recorded in the local area alone, according to data published by Police Scotland.
Chief Superintendent McGuire said: “Protecting vulnerable people remains one of our priorities and invaluable work is underway within our local safeguarding hub to help us achieve that.
“The drop in indecent and sexual assaults is an encouraging picture with recorded incidents down from 138 to 115.
“Likewise with drugs-related crimes, which we will continue to work with our partners on a public health-led approach to ridding them from our communities.
“Dumfries and Galloway accommodates stretches of roads which can be tempting for people to break the law and so these latest figures are a welcome reminder of the investment we have made in making our roads safer for law-abiding users.
“Weapons carrying is a priority and we will continue to use every means at our disposal to remove them from our streets.”
She added: “The pandemic is undoubtedly still steering local policing demand and officers have been putting themselves in harm’s way to keep the people of Dumfries and Galloway safe. Officers will remain visible and accessible and I would encourage everyone in our communities to keep talking to us and reporting your concerns.”
