Freedom of Information

The Police have a limited power to retain samples from a person prosecuted but not convicted for certain sexual/violent offences.

Samples taken in other cases may not be retained and must be destroyed if the person is not convicted or proceedings are otherwise brought to a halt.

Yes, please see the website in Related Information that provides crime data. Input your town or postcode in order to see crime figures for your area.

You can also contact Police Scotland regarding access to this information.

Details of any registered sex offenders are kept on a register for the Police only, it is not for public access. If you have any concerns over the activities of a local resident then you should speak to Police Scotland by dialling 101.

The Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 creates new rights of access to information. It creates a statutory right of access and provides a more extensive scheme for making information publicly available and covers a much wider range of public authorities including local government, National Health Service bodies, schools and colleges, the police and other public bodies and offices.

It permits members of the public to apply for access to documents, or copies of documents with regards to all types of information.

The Act:

• provides a right of access to recorded information held by public authorities;
• creates exemptions from the duty to disclose information; and
• establishes the arrangements for enforcement and appeal.

Further Information can be found at the Freedom of Information Commissioner for Scotland.