Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Police Scotland Reviews Group-Based Child Sexual Exploitation Cases Back to 2013 as Swinney Weighs Inquiry Decision

The government will set out whether to commission an independent probe before Christmas following briefings from police and experts.

Overview

  • Chief Constable Jo Farrell told the Scottish Police Authority the force is identifying cases since January 2013 involving at least one child victim and two or more suspects.
  • Unresolved cases are being reassessed in line with Operation Beaconport, with fresh inquiries to proceed where requested by the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service.
  • Police Scotland will build a profile of suspect demographics to detect patterns or concerns, using a trauma-informed approach with victims.
  • Farrell reported a year-on-year 20% rise in online child sexual abuse and said expanding capability to pursue offenders is a priority.
  • First Minister John Swinney said he will announce before Christmas whether to order a public inquiry after being briefed this week and speaking with Professor Alexis Jay.