New figures show that 141 constables, sergeants and inspectors are currently on “restricted duties”, two out of five of them because they are suspected of data protection offences.<\/p>\n
This is up 48 per cent from 97 a year ago as the new national force takes a stern line on those in its ranks suspected of criminality.<\/p>\n
Three civilian members of staff and two special constables are also on restricted duties, according to papers submitted to the force’s civilian watchdog, the Scottish Police Authority (SPA).<\/p>\n
Another 13 officers were suspended.<\/p>\n
Three of the suspended officers were accused of rape, one of attempted rape.<\/p>\n
Constables were also suspended while under investigation for domestic assault, assault, abduction and fire-raising aggravated by racism and homophobia; stalking; misuse of drugs; and offensive behaviour at football.<\/p>\n
One officer was suspended pending a probe in to criminal neglect of duty and another for a charge of data protection offences; the latter was the only individual to be sent home for no other reason than data protection.<\/p>\n