23 September sees the launch of the theft deterrent SmartWater by St Albans City and District Community Safety Partnership, as part of a wider burglary reduction and prevention campaign across the county.
SmartWater is a theft deterrent which uses state-of-the-art forensic technology to protect homes and businesses from criminals.
Each SmartWater system contains a unique DNA-style forensic code which is simply dabbed into the nooks and crannies of your valuables. The SmartWater codes are stored on a secure database together with the owner’s details, making them uniquely identifiable.
SmartWater can also be used to spray intruders with an invisible DNA marker which provides police with evidence a suspect was there.
Inspector Ruth Dodsworth, Neighbourhood Inspector for St Albans, said: “We are delighted to be working with SmartWater and local residents to help them protect their property and keep burglars at bay.
“Anyone who is brought into custody in Hatfield will automatically be scanned for traces of SmartWater which remains on clothes and skin for a considerable amount of time.
“I also hope this sends a clear message to would-be criminals – don’t bother, as we will be able to trace you and bring you before the courts.”
Once dry, SmartWater is virtually impossible to remove and any traces will glow under ultra-violet light. SmartWater can link criminals to the crime scene and property back to its owner.
Hundreds of SmartWater systems are being given to householders across St Albans city and district, alongside quick and easy crime prevention tips for householders to help protect their possessions.
SmartWater Chief Executive, Phil Cleary, said: “We are delighted to be working with St Albans Community Safety Partnership on this crime prevention initiative which will not only provide reassurance to local residents but also act as a powerful deterrent to criminals.”
“SmartWater is well known to the criminal fraternity as it has successfully been used to convict more than 1,000 offenders to date. SmartWater also maintains a 100% conviction rate, having never lost a case when its evidence has been presented in court.”
Police officers across the whole of Hertfordshire have been briefed to check property for traces of SmartWater and other property markings, as well as checking it against the National Mobile Property Register (www.immobilise.com to the public). There is also proactive police work taking place at this time.
Members of the public can also register their valuables on the free online site www.immobilise.com, and this can help police recover possessions if they are lost or stolen.