New figures show rise in convictions

Official figures for in 2003 show overall 4% increase

News, 1 April 2005

Convictions for serious assault, vandalism, drugs and speeding rose in 2003, according to official statistics just released.

"Criminal Proceedings in Scotland's Courts 2003" reveals that the total number of people convicted of all crimes in Scotland’s courts was 130,600, up 4 per cent from the previous year.

However convictions for drunk driving and crimes of dishonesty fell.

The Scottish Executive statistics show that 87% of suspects proceeded against in court in 2003 were convicted.

A total of 16,600 custodial sentences were imposed, with 80 per cent being for six months or less.

Community sentences were handed out to 14,600 people, 8,500 of them receiving probation (1,000 with a requirement of unpaid community work) and 4,600 receiving community service orders.

The report also shows that convictions were highest among 20 year olds. Six per cent of all males and one per cent of all females of this age were convicted at least once in 2003 for a crime or offences such as common assault or breach of the peace.