Domestic abuse sprays given out in Shropshire

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. Officers will use the UV lights built into their torches, as well as specialist rooms at custody suites with UV lighting.

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.”

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
• Homepage - National Domestic Abuse Helpline
• Clare's Law
• The Police and Crime Commissioner funds a range of domestic abuse and sexual violence services: What are we funding? | West Mercia PCC
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Signs of domestic abuse

• Domestic abuse can be a pattern of behaviours or a single incident. Below are common examples across different types of abuse.
• Physical abuse: This can include hitting, pushing or restraining, as well as damaging property as a way to intimidate and blocking someone from leaving a room or the home.
• Emotional or psychological abuse: Signs of this include constant criticism or humiliation, blaming the victim for the abuser’s behaviour, threatening to harm themselves, the victim or loved ones and gaslighting, which is making someone doubt their own memory or sanity.
• Coercive or controlling behaviour: This behaviour includes monitoring movements, messages or social media, isolating someone from friends, family or support and dictating what someone wears, eats or how they spend their time and making all decisions in the household
• Sexual abuse: This includes pressuring or forcing sexual activity, using guilt or threats to obtain sex and ignoring consent or boundaries
• Digital abuse: Signs of this type of abuse can include using technology to track or harass, demanding access to passwords or devices and sending threatening or controlling messages.