New trial to better protect victims of domestic abuse in Gloucestershire
The trial uses SmartWater - an invisible fluid.
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."
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