Charges for hate crimes in Scotland soar to record high

Lord Advocate Ruth Charteris KC pointed out that 94% of the charges resulted in prosecutorial action last year.

She said: “An increase in reports of crime motivated by racial, sexual orientation and disability aggravated hatred should concern us all.

“Everyone who lives in Scotland is entitled to feel safe and every hate crime represents a decision to target a person because of who they are.

“I want to reach out to communities across Scotland and say that prosecutors are here to ensure that every report of a crime motivated by hate will be carefully considered and brought before the court where appropriate.”

Kirsten Oswald, victims and community safety minister, said: “Recent events have highlighted increased levels of intimidation, and we know the impact this has had on communities who may already be feeling vulnerable.

“These latest figures show that hate crime remains a serious issue in Scotland and this government stands firmly against any form of hatred, prejudice or intolerance and the rhetoric which underpins it.

“While it is essential that people feel empowered to report incidents of hate crime – and this increase may partly reflect improved reporting and awareness – each case represents real harm to individuals and communities.”