Figures reveal 45 reported rapes in region

Shock new figures have revealed that 45 rapes were recorded in Dumfries and Galloway within the first six months of this year.

- MARC MCLEAN

The regularity of attacks equates to a 30 percent increase compared to the five-year average—Police Scotland have confirmed.

Meanwhile, there are concerns that too many perpetrators are escaping justice as the detection rate is less than 50 per cent.

A new crime report, due to be presented to councillors next week, shines a spotlight on the worrying rise in reported rapes.

The report, which covers April 1 to September 30 this year, has been signed off by Chief Superintendent Steven Meikle, Divisional Commander for Dumfries and Galloway.