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North
Ayrshire’s criminals have no respect for our communities.
Almost £10 million in cash and assets has been seized
from criminals since 2003 under the Proceeds of Crime Act.
 Local
Labour MSP Allan Wilson has welcomed news that almost £10 million in cash
and assets has been seized from criminals since 2003 under the Proceeds of
Crime Act.
The Cunninghame North MSP said the laws were hitting criminals in North
Ayrshire communities where it hurts most and showing those tempted by crime
that while it may have short term attractions, ultimately they face losing
everything they have as well as the prospects of serving a long jail
sentence.
The local politician added:
“North Ayrshire’s criminals have no respect for our communities. Their main
concern is to line their pockets with lavish luxuries paid for through
criminal activity. These people do not deserve to live like they do and
today’s news that over £10 million has been seized should be seen as a stark
warning to anyone involved in criminal activity. Not only will they face a
prison sentence, they face losing everything they have illegally gained.
“The Scottish Executive are committed to helping law abiding citizens and I
would urge anyone who knows anything about criminal activity to report it to
the local police or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
Under the Proceeds of Crime Act, cash and bank accounts can be targeted
under the legislation. Criminals can also be forced to surrender property,
cars, luxury items and investments.
Since 2003 a total of £9.9m has been recovered from criminals, including
more than £4.8m in the past year alone.
Notes:
The Financial Crime Unit, which deals with the confiscation of the proceeds
of crime following conviction, recouped £3.4m from 92 confiscation orders
against convicted drug dealers, money launderers and fraudsters during the
past financial year.
In the same period the courts ordered the recovery of £1.4m following
proceedings by the Civil Recovery Unit. This is money which the courts have
concluded was the result of a variety of types of criminal activity. It
includes profits from the sale of two Glasgow properties.
The Financial Crime Unit raised restraint proceedings in 175 cases in the
year to March 31. While these cases are still going through the courts, the
total value of assets restrained in these cases is estimated at more than
£16 million. As well as cash this includes expensive Rolex watches, quad
bikes and a half-share in a fishing vessel.
Money recovered under the Act, up to a maximum of £17 million a year, is
invested by Scottish Ministers in community projects aimed at alleviating
the effects of crime. If more than £17 million is recovered in any financial
year the balance is sent to the UK Treasury.
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