New push targets criminal assets

Jan 21 2013

People who fund their lifestyles through crime are being targeted in a major new police initiative.

Lothian and Borders Police, Central Scotland Police and Fife Constabulary are working together on the "Made From Crime?" initiative which will see officers seize assets purchased from criminal activity using the Proceeds of Crime Act.

Police are asking anyone with suspicions about those who may have made money illegally to contact Crimestoppers anonymously by phone, via the website or Facebook pages.

The move follows the first phase of the campaign in 2011 which resulted in 44 people being arrested and £6.4 million of cash and assets identified for seizure.

The initiative is supported by the Scottish Government and the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service.

Deputy Chief Constable Iain Livingstone, who will oversee the crime portfolio for the forthcoming Police Service of Scotland, said: "We know there are people living beyond their means on the proceeds of crime, be it through the purchase of flash cars, designer clothes or expensive jewellery, and that communities are suffering from the side-effects of drug-dealing, violence and other associated crimes.

"I would assure people who are trapped by those threatening them with violence or retribution, either associates or partners, that we will help them and tackle the violence and criminality they face. We will act on information and bring offenders to justice."

From April 1, these three police forces will merge to form the East Command of the Police Service of Scotland.

Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill said: "The net is closing in on those responsible for crimes that cause serious harm to individuals and communities. With the public's help, more of those profiting from crime should and will be firmly brought to justice."

Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service director of operations David Harvie said: "We know that organised criminals are ever more resourceful and we need to be one step ahead of them."