Gloucestershire Police trial forensic spray to protect victims of domestic abuse

Police in Gloucestershire are trialling the use of SmartWater to provide better protection to victims of domestic abuse in the county.

SmartWater is an invisible fluid which has been traditionally used to forensically mark items such as bikes and valuables, however officers are now using it for the prevention and detection of domestic abuse offences.

Officers are giving canisters of SmartWater to high risk victims of domestic abuse to spray on perpetrators if they approach them; breaking their bail conditions or banning orders.

Suspects will be told victims are protected by the forensic spray and will be given a letter explaining how it works in a bid to deter them from contacting the victim or going to their house.

The fluid, which shows up under ultraviolet light, can remain on clothing and skin for several weeks and contains a unique reference code which allows officers to forensically prove that a perpetrator has been in contact with a victim.

The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner has funded the trial in Gloucestershire after the initiative was successfully trialled in 15 police force areas across the country.

Chief Superintendent Kerry Paterson, force lead for tackling Violence Against Women and Girls said: "As part of our commitment to tackling domestic abuse we are issuing SmartWater canisters to protect those who are at high risk of repeated violence and harm.

"In addition to the existing safeguarding measures that are already in place for victims, it is hoped the SmartWater spray will provide extra protection and reassurance for victims and help them to feel safe in their own homes.

"We also want to send a clear message to perpetrators to stay away from the protected person and their address. If they do not heed this warning, they are at risk of being sprayed and we will then have key evidence which we can use against them in court."

Police and Crime Commissioner Chris Nelson said: "Working to end male violence towards women and girls is one of my top priorities.

"Domestic abuse is prevalent across the UK and Gloucestershire is no different. Too many people are victimised in their own homes by people who purport to care for them.

"I am pleased my office has been able to fund a innovate way to try and catch the perpetrators of domestic abuse in this way."

Professional support is available for anyone who has an abusive partner, former partner or relative – contact Gloucestershire Domestic Abuse Support Service on 01452 726 570 or email: [email protected]. More information is available on their website: https://www.gdass.org.uk/

The Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme gives any member of the public the right to ask the police if their partner may pose a risk to them. It is often called 'Clare's Law' after the landmark case that led to it.

This scheme also allows a member of the public to make an enquiry into the partner of a close friend or family member. For more information on this visit: https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/daa/domestic-abuse/alpha2/request-information-under-clares-law/

To report a domestic abuse related incident call police on the non-emergency number 101. In an emergency, or if the incident is ongoing, always call 999.

If you are in a position where you need help but cannot physically speak as there is a risk to your safety, you can still get through to the police.

Dial 999 and if you cannot speak to the operator, type 55 on your keypad. Your silent call will be transferred to police and the call handler will be informed that you need help.

SmartWater spray under ultraviolet light.