Over 140 police officers on restricted duties amid allegations of sex crimes and other offences

Data seen by The Scotsman indicates there are currently 13 officers suspended from Police Scotland while a number of offences are investigated.

In addition, dozens of officers are on restricted duties for breaching data protection rules and for crimes including sex and drug offences.

Some officers have been on restricted duties for more than two years.

In one case an officer is currently suspended for a number of allegations including assault, fireraising and abduction and another faces claims of criminally neglecting his duties.

Another five constables face allegations of attempted rape or rape.

Details from the Scottish Police Authority indicate that as well as those officers who are on restricted duties, a number face allegations of theft, public indecency, assault, domestic abuse and having inappropriate images on their computer.

Over 140 officers are on restricted duties.

One constable is accused of stalking and domestic abuse while a sergeant is accused of public indecency and an inspector of discreditable conduct as well as neglect of duty.

In other cases police are alleged to have perverted the course of justice, of drug offences and of assault or sending racist emails.

David Kennedy, conduct secretary of the Scottish Police Federation said: “Many of these cases will be from when the officer was off-duty.

“In general, there are a lot more historical cases being looked at, quite rightly. They are being more robust and in-depth than they have been in the past.

“The only alternative to suspension is to put an officer on restricted duties – it means you are getting something for your money, rather than them sitting at home on full pay.”

Deputy chief constable Neil Richardson (pictured) said: “Within Police Scotland there are currently 13 suspended officers which is a low number given the size of our organisation, but I recognise that where serious allegations are made against a police officer there will naturally be a level of public concern.

“Suspension is a tool of last resort and is only used where it is appropriate and justifiable.

“Complaints about the police and the conduct of officers and staff are closely scrutinised from a number of quarters, including the Scottish Police Authority.”