SmartWater pilot to help tackle domestic abuse in Derbyshire

An innovative pilot scheme using new technology to help keep victims of stalking and domestic abuse safe is to be extended across Derbyshire.

The trial, which began in October, saw victims in two areas of the county being given a forensic marking kit in a bid to deter perpetrators.

Initially launched in Chesterfield and Erewash, the scheme, using SmartWater technology, is now being rolled out force wide after further funding was secured from Derbyshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Angelique Foster.

As well as a home protection kit, victims will be given a canister of SmartWater which they can then spray on the perpetrator if they approach them.

The liquid is not visible to the naked eye, but glows under ultraviolet light and each kit has a unique code so it can be traced back to specific victims and perpetrators. SmartWater will stay on clothing and skin for several weeks, allowing officers to prove that a perpetrator has been in contact with a victim.

Detective Inspector Adam Gascoigne from the high-risk domestic abuse unit, who is leading the roll out, said: “Having already deployed SmartWater in the trial areas, it is fantastic to now be in a position to roll it out across the county.

“We know that this technology makes a real difference to victims of domestic abuse and stalking and helps to make them feel safer so we’re really pleased to be able offer it to more high-risk victims in Derbyshire.

“I’m grateful to the Police and Crime Commissioner for her support with this through the trial and now the extension of the scheme. The fact that the PCC has committed to fund the roll out shows her confidence in the effectiveness of using SmartWater technology to keep victims of domestic abuse and stalking safe.

“The technology has been successfully used in both West Yorkshire and South Yorkshire, with West Yorkshire Police having secured the first conviction using SmartWater last year when a man was jailed after breaching a non-molestation order so I’m hoping we can have similar positive results here in Derbyshire.”

Angelique Foster, Derbyshire Police and Crime Commissioner, who also funded the pilot scheme, said: “I want to reassure every victim of domestic abuse or stalking in Derbyshire that these crimes are being treated seriously and all efforts are being invested in preventing them from happening again in the future.

“SmartWater has the potential to save significant police time and resources and deter violence. I will continue to monitor this programme closely to understand the benefits of SmartWater as part of a suite of tools to keep victims safe.”