DeterTech is pleased to report Gloucester has officially become a SmartWater™ protected city, marking a major step forward in proactive crime prevention. The initiative will see hundreds of forensic marking kits distributed to retailers and businesses, helping to deter crime before it occurs.
SmartWater is a proven deterrent, that has proudly maintained a 100% conviction rate in contested court cases for more than 30 years. Furthermore, research into criminal behaviour indicates 74% of offenders would actively avoid stealing from a property or location displaying SmartWater signage.
Every bottle of SmartWater forensic marking solution contains a unique chemical code that links offenders and recovered property directly to the scene of the crime, providing police with powerful, court‑admissible evidence. A speck smaller than the full stop at the end of this sentence is all it takes, with DeterTech offering free lab analysis and expert testimony to the police.
Funded by the Gloucestershire Police and Crime Commissioner and Gloucester Business Improvement District, and delivered by Gloucestershire Constabulary, the scheme is intended to support 300 shops in the city centre. It marks a welcome intervention in tackling a national rise in retail crime.
Dave Lewis, Police Relationship Manager, DeterTech, said: We’re delighted to be able to say Gloucester is a SmartWater protected city. It’s one of the many ways DeterTech is working to bring greater peace of mind to people and communities, everyday.”
Ash Shingler, Chief Inspector, Gloucestershire Constabulary, added: “The launch of the SmartWater City campaign marks an important step in strengthening our approach to tackling crime in Gloucester. By working in partnership with local businesses and equipping them with this proven forensic technology, we are making it clear that offending in our city centre will not go unnoticed. This initiative is about prevention as much as enforcement, creating a visible deterrent, supporting investigations, and ultimately protecting our business community. I would encourage all city centre businesses to get involved and be part of this united effort to keep Gloucester safe.”
Steve Lindsay of Gloucester City Safe / Gloucester Business Improvement District concluded: “SmartWater is an effective forensic marking system that has been found to be more identifiable and accurate like DNA. It has a 100% conviction rate in contested court cases and is an excellent deterrent against shoplifters and thieves. Working hand in hand in partnership supporting one of Gloucester BID’s key objectives, which is to create a safer city, the SmartWater project sends a clear message to would-be shoplifters that we are fighting back.”
For more information on DeterTech’s SmartWater solutions, visit https://detertech.com/solutions/smartwater/
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