West Mercia Police have given domestic abuse victims a special spray in a groundbreaking safety measure. Almost a dozen people, believed to be at serious risk from a partner or ex-partner, have been handed Domestic Abuse SmartTag Sprays in Shropshire.
How the SmartTag Spray Works
The harmless liquid, which cannot be seen but stays on the person for a long period of time, contains a unique forensic code only visible under UV light. Police officers use UV lights built into their torches, as well as specialist rooms at custody suites with UV lighting, to detect the spray.
Police said: "Officers in Shropshire have delivered 11 Domestic Abuse SmartTag Sprays to victims of domestic abuse offering a new level of protection. The sprays act as a safety tool and are given to victims believed to be at serious risk from a partner or ex-partner. The device allows victims to mark an abuser from a distance, without any physical contact, by spraying a harmless liquid that can’t be seen but stays on the person for a long period of time. Each spray contains a unique forensic code only visible under a UV light."
Police Statement on the Initiative
Officers have so far delivered 11 sprays across Shropshire to victims of domestic abuse. This work also supports Neighbourhood Policing Week, highlighting how local officers are working proactively to protect vulnerable people and keep communities safe.
Sergeant Alex Webb, from Shropshire’s Prevention Team, said: “If a suspect comes near a victim, breaks bail conditions, or ignores any orders, the presence of this coded liquid on their skin or clothing will show they were there. It is designed to give victims extra reassurance knowing that even if an offender leaves the scene, the police can still link them to what happened. It provides a safe, non-contact way to mark an offender.”
Support for Victims
Anyone who believes they are affected by domestic abuse is encouraged to reach out, whether directly to police or via local support services: Report domestic abuse | West Mercia Police; Home - Women's Aid; National Domestic Abuse Helpline; Clare's Law and the Police and Crime Commissioner funds a range of domestic abuse and sexual violence services.
