SmartWater trial to protect domestic abuse victims

A police force is testing the use of a forensic spray to help protect victims of domestic abuse.

Gloucestershire Police is giving officers the SmartWater spray to help them to prevent and detect domestic abuse offences in the county.

SmartWater is an invisible, traceable fluid which has traditionally been used by police to forensically mark items such as bikes and valuables.

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

Suspects will be told that victims are carrying 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 home.

The fluid shows up under ultraviolet light and can remain on clothing and skin for several weeks.

It contains a unique reference code which allows officers to forensically prove that a perpetrator has been in contact with a victim.

Chief Superintendent Kerry Paterson, force lead for tackling Violence Against Women and Girls, said she hoped the spray would provide "extra protection and reassurance" for victims.

"We also want to send a clear message to perpetrators to stay away from the protected person and their address," she added.

"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."

The trial was funded by The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner in Gloucestershire after it was successfully tested in 15 police force areas across the country.

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 an innovate way to try to catch the perpetrators of domestic abuse in this way."

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