Scotland's justice system is facing intense scrutiny after new data reveals a record number of offenders are being diverted away from prosecution and towards social work programmes, in a controversial policy shift.
Official figures obtained show that a staggering 34,176 offenders were offered 'direct measures' in the past year—a dramatic 30% increase from the previous year and the highest number since records began. This strategy, intended for low-level crimes, is now being applied to individuals charged with serious offences.
Serious Crimes Deemed Suitable for Diversion
Critics are sounding the alarm after data revealed that thousands of individuals accused of severe crimes were offered alternatives to prosecution. This includes:
- 1,300 offenders charged with carrying knives or offensive weapons.
- 1,500 individuals involved in domestic abuse incidents.
- Over 3,500 suspects accused of crimes of dishonesty.
- Nearly 6,000 people charged with breaching the peace.
These direct measures typically involve being referred to a social work scheme for rehabilitation or receiving a warning instead of facing a formal court hearing and a potential criminal record.
A 'Soft-Touch' Approach?
The policy, managed by the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS), is designed to free up court time and resources for the most serious cases. However, opposition parties and victim advocacy groups have condemned the scale of its use.
Scottish Conservative justice spokesman Russell Findlay MSP stated: "These shocking figures reveal the sheer scale of the SNP’s soft-touch justice approach... It is little wonder that public confidence in our justice system is at rock bottom."
There are growing concerns that this approach risks trivialising serious criminal behaviour and fails to deliver adequate justice for victims.
Government and Agency Defence
In defence of the policy, a spokesperson for the COPFS said: "Direct measures are an important part of Scotland’s prosecution system and are used where appropriate... The use of direct measures is overseen by experienced prosecutors who will take into account the views of victims."
The Scottish Government maintains that diversion schemes can be more effective than short-term prison sentences at reducing reoffending, thus creating safer communities in the long term.
Despite this, the figures indicate a profound shift in how justice is administered in Scotland, leaving many to question the balance between rehabilitation and public accountability.
