The number of Special Constables working in Tayside and Fife has dropped by a significant 56% and 65% since 2013 under the SNP.
Research by the Scottish Conservatives has shown that both Fife and Tayside have recruited only 34 special constables in the past three years.
In 2013 there were 127 Special constables in Tayside and 121 in Fife, now only 63 and 42 remain.
This pattern is repeated across Scotland where over 750 officers have been lost since 2013.
A Special Constable is a part-time, volunteer officer who works alongside regular police officers.
Commenting Liz Smith MSP said;
“Special Constables make an important contribution to policing in Tayside and Fife and provide an important stepping stone for those wishing to the join the force full-time. Therefore, it is concerning to see such a large and drastic reduction in numbers over the past five years.
“Communities across Fife and Tayside benefit from the support of Special Constables and residents in both areas will be concerned to learn that so few patrol their neighbourhoods.
“Whilst the SNP has boasted about reducing crime and maintaining officer numbers, special constables have been cut to the bone. It’s important that the Scottish Government explains why this has happened and outlines measures to reverse this decline.”