Success of scheme to tackle persistent offenders

Renfrewshire and Inverclyde campaign of intensive measures against worst offenders

News, 12 June 2007

Persistent offenders have been successfully targeted by a campaign in the Renfrewshire and Inverclyde areas run by Strathclyde Police and area procurator fiscals.

The offences targeted include drug dealing, antisocial behaviour, housebreaking and vehicle crime. The campaign ensures that criminals are identified and targeted by the police, and following their arrest, the procurator fiscal will use a number of legal measures including grouping outstanding cases into one single case and seeking special bail conditions and curfews where necessary.

If the offender is released on bail, the police rigorously enforce the conditions, and in the event of breach the offender will be immediately re-arrested.

Since the initiative kicked off, 49 criminals have been targeted. Of this number, 12 are currently in prison and a further six detained in custody. Thirteen have had special bail conditions imposed and six are currently under curfew. One persistent offender has been tagged.

Of those who have been released from custody, six have not reoffended.

Detective Chief Inspector Bobby Shaw said: "I am delighted with the success of this initiative. Improving the quality of life in our communities undoubtedly requires a strong partnership approach and I am grateful for the assistance of John Watt, the area procurator fiscal and his team who have been key contributors from the outset."