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.


Criminal Disposals

In August 2021 there were 6,226 disposals (excluding secondary disposals and the 'other' disposal category) from Scotland's courts. This is 86% of the 19-20 monthly average of 7,276 and 2% higher than July 2021.

Between April 2020 and August 2021 there were 48,554 (39%) fewer disposals than would have been expected based on 19-20 average figures. Over this time period, there have been 34% fewer custodial sentences and 43% fewer community disposals imposed by the courts than might have been expected.

To: 31 August 2021 Monthly average 2019-20 August 2021 Change % Estimated* April 2020 – August 2021 Actual April 2020 – August 2021 Change %
Imprisonment 1,010 804 -20% 17,170 11,413 -34%
Community Disposal (CPO & DTTO) 1,383 1,045 -24% 23,511 13,503 -43%
Restriction of Liberty Order 296 248 -16% 5,032 4,139 -18%
Fine etc. 3,105 2,850 -8% 52,785 28,916 -45%
Admonished/ Discharged 1,482 1,279 -14% 25,194 17,167 -32%

* based on 19-20 monthly average disposals

Disposals from court at any point in time are related both to the volume of business coming into courts and the length of time it takes that business to proceed through the court system. Therefore, changes in crime levels or the ability of courts to function in the usual way may have associated impacts on disposals.

Further Information: Latest SCTS published official statistics can be found here: https://scotcourts.gov.uk/official-statistics

Contact

Email: justice_analysts@gov.scot

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