Launch of new equipment to help identify offenders

There’s a new tool in the battle against anti-social behaviour and violence – and it’s one which will leave a lasting impression on offenders.

SmartTag, a special, traceable forensic spray developed by SmartWater Group, will see those who threaten or attack others, sprayed with the forensic spray by security staff from a distance.

Friday 29 October marked the official launch of SmartTag in Hereford. Used in the same way as an aerosol, the responding door security officer pulls the safety pin, aims and sprays the individual with a unique forensic liquid which links them to the scene long after the incident has taken place.

Superintendent Edd Williams, responsible for Herefordshire, said: “This new development and roll out is part of our ongoing relationship with SmartWater Group and highlights an exciting step in our continued efforts to keep people safe and protect them from harm.”

“I believe this new technology will help us to address some of the elements relating to anti-social behaviour, especially seen in our night time economy and send a positive message to the local community that we are doing all we can to address their concerns.”

PC Chris Lea from Hereford’s Harm Hub said: “We have handed over new equipment to those people responsible for keeping your pubs, bars and clubs safe places to relax and have fun and who often face a barrage of abuse and violence. By tagging individuals, officers patrolling the community can easily identify them and progress any required enforcement.”

Gary Higgins, COO from SmartWater Group said, “The power of the SmartWater Group brand makes SmartTag a simple, effective and reliable method of taming aggressive behaviour. We believe that SmartTag will be a standard piece of equipment for all professional SIA accredited security officers.”

Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said "It is great to see new and intuitive ways to deter antisocial behaviour in the night time economy across our community.

"The  SmartTag will hopefully have the desired effect and lower the number of reported crimes and if needed make it easier to identify those involved. I am pleased to support this initiative with funding and hope it goes towards making the community feel safer."

Issued by AG, Corporate Communications