DNA protection for homes in historic village
(20/12/2007)

Homes in the historic village of Shareshill, near Cannock in South Staffordshire, have been subjected to a spate of thefts over the past year where valuable items have been stolen. The 14th century church has also suffered from thefts.

However, residents of Shareshill are teaming up with local police to fight back against theft by using the latest in DNA forensic technology to protect their homes and possessions.

Around 100 properties have been permanently marked with SelectaDNA, which irrefutably links criminals to burglaries and break-ins. The forensic markings are impossible to remove and identification can be made from tiny specks the size of a pin head.

Thieves should be aware that similar police marking schemes in other residential areas across the UK have reduced break-ins by up to 80%.

Whilst crime levels in Shareshill are considered by police to be "moderate" at present, the fact that the village has quick and easy ‘getaway’ access to major roads is thought to have been a contributing factor to its appeal to thieves in the past.

Metal street signs are being erected at the entrance and exit points into and out of Shareshill, warning thieves that houses are DNA protected.

PC Andy Heaton, who organised the scheme, said: “On dark winter nights, when theft is traditionally on the increase, we want to help residents protect their properties. Forensic marking will be a major deterrent to thieves in the first instance – but if items are stolen, it is much easier for us to catch the perpetrators.”

James Brown of security company Selectamark, which produces SelectaDNA, said: "Over the years, we have been involved in hundreds of police schemes across the country and we are very pleased that SelectaDNA is being used to help the police tackle theft in Shareshill. We are confident that residents will see a drop in crime as a result."