Report shows sex offender numbers

More than 3,100 registered sex offenders are living in Scotland, it has been revealed.

The figures, published by the Sex Offender Management Programme, also show that the whereabouts of 21 registered sex offenders is unknown.

Nine offenders categorised as posing a risk of harm to the public have committed further serious crimes while under supervision.

However, police have stressed that the public should not be worried.

The Sex Offender Management Programme was set up last year to assess the risk sex offenders pose to the public, and to co-ordinate the efforts of police, the Scottish Prison Service and local authorities in protecting the public.

'Difficult decisions'

Of the 3,131 registered sex offenders in Scotland, 98% complied with the terms of their community supervision orders.

The authorities have lost track of 21 offenders, with 19 believed to be abroad and the remaining two thought to still be in Scotland.

Deputy Chief Constable Bill Skelly, of the Association of Chief Police Officers Scotland, said: "We all appreciate the concerns that the public would have in relation to a sex offender being in their community.

"In terms of the number of offenders who are currently wanted or missing, two out of 3,131 seems to me to show that the arrangements we have in place are working very well indeed."

Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill added: "Today's reports provide clear evidence that the responsible authorities are developing a comprehensive response to a complex and sensitive issue, using professional judgement to properly target resources to the key risks.

"Throughout the year dedicated professionals are taking difficult decisions and developing detailed plans to safeguard our communities from the risks posed by sex offenders."