Staffordshire Police joins forces with SmartWater

Staffordshire Police is joining forces with company SmartWater to deter perpetrators of domestic abuse and stalking by using forensic products to help protect victims.

Following a successful trial, officers will now support at-risk individuals across the county with forensic technology.

The idea, first used by South Yorkshire Police, is to deliver an additional layer of protection to victims; providing them with means of forensically marking important areas and items in their homes in order to help identify perpetrators.

The products provide a unique forensic code which have a proven track record for identifying property and linking offenders to the scene of their crime.

Research shows that 80% of people issued with SmartWater products reported feeling safer and 95% would recommend it to others.

T/Inspector Mark Burslem, said: “We hope this will help those at risk from domestic abuse and stalking feel safer in their homes as well as more secure in the possession of their valuables.

“The products will also enable officers to more readily determine the perpetrators of abuse and take appropriate action against them. It also acts as a deterrent.

“During the trial period in Cannock we saw a significant reduction in the number of reported incidents and we hope to have similar results across the county.

“The products are offered alongside on-going support from specialist officers and partner agencies including New Era and Women’s Aid.”

Gary Higgins, Director of SmartWater Technology, a Division of the SmartWater Group Ltd said: “SmartWater is delighted to be supporting Staffordshire Police with this innovative and very effective use of our products.

“SmartWater maintains a 100% conviction rate in contested court cases, powerful proof of our effectiveness in linking perpetrators to the scene of their crime.”