Coronavirus (COVID-19): Justice Analytical Services data report - August 2021

Monthly data report on how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the justice system in Scotland, including information from Police Scotland, Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service, and Scottish Prison Service.


Subjects marked for Direct Measure

Direct measure or alternatives to court include diversion, fiscal fines, fixed penalties, community and work orders. Fiscal fine limits were increased as part of the Coronavirus (Scotland) Act 2020.

In January 2021, for the first time in 2020-21, the numbers of subjects receiving a Fiscal Fine increased to above 19-20 average levels (dotted lines). Numbers fell to a low in April 2021 and although they have increased overall since that time, they remain below pre-pandemic levels.

The number of subjects given Fiscal fixed penalties increased from May 2020, and have remained above 19-20 average levels since August 2020.

Chart: Subjects marked for direct measures (bars – monthly count April 2020 to August 2021, dashed lines 19-20 average)
Bar chart showing the number of subjects marked for non-court disposals by COPFS.

Contact

Email: justice_analysts@gov.scot

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