Smart spray used to protect domestic abuse victims

The canisters are being given to domestic abuse victims in Hull and East Yorkshire

Police have introduced a special spray aimed at protecting victims of domestic abuse in Hull and East Yorkshire.

The SmartWater fluid is invisible, but shows up under ultraviolet light and has a unique code that allows criminals to be identified.

Humberside Police is giving out canisters to spray on domestic abusers if they break banning orders and approach victims.

The force said the spray stayed on clothing and skin for several weeks, "allowing officers to prove beyond reasonable doubt that a perpetrator has been in contact with a victim".

The water is also placed on locations around the home, like door handles and gates.

Insp Helen Collier from the Domestic Abuse Safeguarding and Investigation Teams said the spray had proved successful in reducing incidents of other crimes, such as theft and robberies.

“It offers victims an additional safeguarding measure to make them feel safer in their homes and whilst going about their daily business," she said.

“Feedback from the victims is positive so far, with one stating that knowing the SmartWater was in their possession made them feel better as it works alongside other conditions including bail."

The spray is invisible to the naked eye but glows under ultraviolet light

It has been successfully trialled in the Derbyshire and West Yorkshire police areas.

Humberside Police is rolling out the technology across Hull and East Yorkshire and hopes to extend it to northern Lincolnshire.

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