THE POLICE SCOTLAND Area Commander for Moray has reassured local MSP Douglas Ross that the region remains one of the safest in the country.
That was the outcome of a first meeting between Chief Inspector Stewart Mackie and the Tory MSP since he was elected to the Scottish Parliament earlier this year.
Mr Ross, who also remains as a serving councillor, is also the shadow cabinet secretary for Justice.
Following his first formal meeting with Chief Inspector Mackie he said: “I’m grateful to the Chief Inspector for taking time to meet with me following my election to the Scottish Parliament to discuss policing throughout Moray.
“As my party’s spokesperson for Justice and a member of the Justice Committee I was keen to be brought up to date on current trends and policing matters in Moray.
“I was greatly encouraged by the discussion we had. There is a clear desire, enthusiasm and commitment from officers locally to provide a quality service whilst constrained by tight budgets.
“The Chief Inspector highlighted that crimes involving serious violence are down in Moray as in vandalism which I know from my role on the local police committee was a concern several months ago.
“There has been an increase in common assaults and housebreakings but I know local officers will do their best to detect these crimes and prevent the figures increasing further
“With respect to housebreakings, many of these crimes related to outbuildings, garages and sheds. It is perhaps a timely reminder with summer well under way and much activity outdoors and in gardens that people make sure that any garages or outhouses are kept secure to prevent any opportunist thief from making off with tools, equipment or bikes.
“I welcome the comment made by Chief Inspector Mackie that Moray remains a safe place in which to live and I am sure that I echo the sentiments of everyone in the area in expressing my gratitude for the work done by our local Police officers and police staff.”