More knives being carried, admits Tayside chief

Aug 29 2008 by Les Stewart, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

ALTHOUGH there has been an increase in knife carrying in the Tayside Police Force area, assaults with bladed weapons have been “fairly stable” over the past five years, according to Chief Constable Kevin Mathieson.

The police chief told a meeting of the Tayside Joint Police Board this week that the levels of serious and violent crime recorded in the first quarter of 2008/09 “mirrored” the same trend as last year – but with higher monthly results.

“By the end of June, there had been an increase of 39 crimes, with the majority being serious assault,” he stated.

“Most of the increases occurred in Central Division and more recent analysis indicates that out of 46 serious assaults reported, 12 involved the use of a knife or bladed instrument.”

Of those 12 incidents, seven occurred in a public place while the remaining five took place in the home.

“There has been considerable media coverage nationally regarding knives being used in homicides,” added the Chief Constable.

“While the incidence of knife carrying in the force area has increased, there is no evidence to indicate the tragic events being highlighted in the national media are reflected locally.

“This view is confirmed from information available from partner agencies dealing with stab injuries.

“The local situation is closely monitored and activity is regularly taken to counter carrying of knives at public venues, especially those linked to the night-time economy.”

Mr Mathieson pointed out that detection rates for serious assault “remain high” and nearly eight out of 10 cases are solved.

“Police activity connected with the night-time economy seeks to prevent serious assaults which are linked to alcohol consumption.”

A total of 62 people were killed or seriously injured during the first quarter – nine fewer than last year.

Three children were killed or seriously injured, a reduction of five over the relevant period.