McArthur: Police need the right skills and resources to tackle online sex crimes

Scottish Liberal Democrat justice spokesperson Liam McArthur has today warned that the police need the right skills and resources to tackle online sex crimes as new annual crime statistics showed sex crimes are now at their second highest level since 1971 when records began.

Figures from Police Scotland show that:

• Between 2023-24 and 2024-25, sexual crimes increased by 3%, from 14,484 to 14,892. Sex crimes are now at the second highest level seen since 1971, which is the first year with comparable data. At least 34% of sexual crimes related to a victim under 18.
• 4,070 sexual crimes, 27% of all sexual crimes recorded in 2024-25, were cyber-crimes. There were 1,490 sexual cyber-crimes recorded in 2024-25 with a victim under 18.
• Recorded crimes of indecent photos of children increased by 11% from 747 to 828.
• There has been a 28% increase in the number of ‘indecent photos of children’ crimes recorded over the last decade, from 645 to 828, and an 11% increase just over the last year.

Scottish Liberal Democrat justice spokesperson Liam McArthur said:

"New technology brings with it new challenges. So much of our lives are lived online but with that comes fresh opportunities for scammers, extortionists and abusers.

“These figures suggest that we are falling behind in the race between criminals and law enforcement and that often it is children who are paying the price.

“The police need the right skills and resources to tackle these crimes but it’s clear that a lack of resources and the loss of valuable civilian expertise has had a significant impact. Police officers and staff work tirelessly to keep our communities safe but they’re hugely stretched.

"The Scottish Government must ensure that officers have the tools, time and expertise to ensure these crimes are properly pursued."