Police Scotland Rape & Serious Sexual Crime Portfolio

Police Scotland has a dedicated lead for Major Crime and Public Protection. The current lead is ACC Steve Johnston, Specialist Crime Division. Further assurance is provided through the Police Scotland Force and Regional tasking boards that provides a suitable tactical response that promotes effective local responses and collaborative working. The head of SCD National Public Protection also co-chairs the Sexual Crime Board along with Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) to enhance working nationally between Police Scotland and COPFS.

Responding to and working to prevent rape and sexual crime is delivered operationally across all the local policing divisions and supported nationally by SCD Public Protection teams for Rape and Sexual Crime, Child Abuse and Domestic Abuse. This is a system wide response and requires the support of partner agencies both local and national. Every case of rape that is reported has a Senior Investigating Officer (SIO) appointed, this shows the level of commitment from SCD NPP and Local Policing.

Against a backdrop of a shared understanding and belief that rape, and sexual crime is significantly under reported, reports of rape and sexual crime has increased in the last year. SCD National Public Protection (SCD NPP) has implemented a consistent national approach to addressing rape and sexual crime, aiming to enhance awareness, training, and delivery of services. This approach is essential in tackling societal issues surrounding these crimes and ensuring that victims feel confident to report the crime. As these initiatives continue, they lead to increased reporting and improved detection rates, fostering a safer community for all.