Crime is on the decrease in Clackmannanshire for the second successive year.

Figures released this week show that there was a drop in the overall recorded rate for crimes  of 18% compared to the previous year. The reduction in overall crime rates follows the trend from 2011-12. The figures covered the period from 1st April 2012 to 31st March 2013,

The report, the final one during which policing was the responsibility of Central Scotland Police prior to the establishment of the single force for Scotland, was tabled today (Thursday) before Clackmannanshire Council’s Housing Health and Care Committee.

Welcoming the report, Convener, Councillor Les Sharp said: “It is an excellent report and it shows the impact policing is having on taking forward the Community Planning Priority Outcomes, and making our community feel safer.”

In the past year the police service in the area was the responsibility of Derek Penman, the then chief constable of Central Scotland Police.

The downward trend in crimes and offences involving anti-social behaviour, disorder and vandalism continued throughout the year, with a reduction of around 25%.

Councillor Sharp added: “I welcome in particular the drop in the number of incidents of violence. Minor assaults which make up the largest number of acts of violence 659 continued to reduce from the previous year totals of 776 and against the five year average of 674. I also commend the  detection rate which has risen to 96% from 90% in 2011/12.”

Crimes of dishonesty went down by 13% with a particular drop in reports of car crime, which was reduced by 30%.

Councillor Sharp went on: “Efforts by the police were directed towards known repeat offenders, with early intervention reducing the likelihood of a series of crimes being committed.”

The levels of crimes of indecency continued  to fall with a reduction of almost 30% against 2011/12, with the detection rate increased by 30%.

The number of injuries arising from road collisions in Clackmannanshire has also reduced significantly over the past decade.

The number of young drivers, aged between 17-24, involved in road accidents and the number suffering injury as a result of collisions were both down on previous years. There was also a decrease in collisions and injuries involving motor cyclists.

The number of domestic abuse incidents 713 showed a welcome drop against the previous year 796 and the three year average of 778.

Chief Inspector Stephen Sneddon said: “This report reflects well on the work which Central Scotland Police carried out with Clackmannanshire Council and other local partners.

“However, while the positive comments from the local authority are very much appreciated, Police Scotland will not be resting on our laurels. We will be moving forward building on previous success and focussing on keeping people safe.”