Homicide Rates Fall

The number of homicide cases in Scotland has dropped to its lowest level on record, according to new statistics released today.

Figures from Homicide in Scotland 2013-14 show there were 61 homicide victims last year, a drop on the previous year and the lowest number since current records began in 1976. Police have identified the accused for all of the 60 cases.

The statistics show similar trends to previous years, that the majority of cases took place in a house or flat, between victims and accused that were known to one another.

Sharp objects, including but not exclusively knives, were the main methods of killing, however these levels are also at their lowest since current records began.

Commenting on the figures, Justice Secretary Michael Matheson said:

"Homicide is a devastating crime for the families of victims and, while I am encouraged that last year we had the lowest levels on records, we cannot be complacent and must never forget the grieving families left behind.

"It is concerning that alcohol and drugs continue to be factors in over half of homicides and is another stark reminder of the devastating social harm these substances can cause. This is one reason why we are continuing in our efforts to encourage people to drink less alcohol, maintaining our commitment to introduce minimum pricing, and to tackle the scourge of cheap, strong alcohol. Our national drugs strategy is also having an effect and problem drug use is also falling, particularly amongst young people.

"We will not be complacent though. This Government is constantly looking at new ways to reduce knife crime even further by changing the culture on young people carrying knives through education and over the last five years Scottish Government has funded the No Knives Better Lives programme with over £2.5 million. We are also increasing the maximum penalty for knife possession from four to five years, combining tough enforcement alongside our education work. 

"This Government is also taking action to tackle the scourge of domestic abuse in Scotland. Last week, we announced our intention to consult on a specific domestic abuse offence and we are providing £34.5 million in funding between 2012 and 2015 to be targeted at a range of domestic abuse initiatives across Scotland."