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Legal Matters
Scotland
Police Scotland denies arrest avoidance claims

Police Scotland has rejected claims that officers are being encouraged to avoid arrests because of limited staffing and custody capacity. Scottish Police Federation general secretary David Kennedy said station closures, fewer cells and officer shortages meant the force could no longer arrest as many people as previously. The dispute follows figures showing 83,765 people were taken into custody in 2025-26, down by 15,451 from the previous year. Police Scotland said officers use proportionate alternatives, such as recorded warnings for minor offences, so resources can focus on serious threats and vulnerable people. However, it insisted anyone requiring arrest would still be detained and that custody facilities remain available across Scotland. The Scottish Government supported the force’s position.

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