SelectaDNA Spray is designed to deter commercial burglaries and smash-and-grab raids

(22/10/2010)

Selectamark Security Systems plc has developed a security device that uses a forensic DNA spray to link burglars to the scene of their crime.

Managing Director Andrew Knights said: "The SelectaDNA Spray is designed to deter commercial burglaries and smash-and-grab raids. It has already been successfully deployed in the UK, Europe and New Zealand to protect retail outlets, banks, jewellers, warehouses, petrol stations and other premises to protect their valuable stock and assets."

The system consists of multiple spray heads that can be fitted above windows and doors of premises and as a burglar enters the property the system is triggered to emit a burst of SelectaDNA solution onto the offenders. The solution contains a UV tracer and a unique DNA code, linking intruders irrefutably to the crime scene.

Police routinely scan for traces of SelectaDNA, and if found, it can help them to obtain a conviction.

Traces of the DNA solution can be taken from the skin, hair and clothing of offenders, and sent away for forensic analysis to prove that the offender has broken into a particular premises. Although invisible (unless viewed under UV light) and harmless, the DNA will remain on an offender for weeks - clinging to fibres and sitting in creases of the skin.

The DNA Spray can be linked to a panic button or connected to an existing intruder alarm system.

Jewellery stores and convenience stores in Lancashire in the UK have been using the new spray system and staff and local police have been reassured by its deterrent value. A spokesman for the Lancashire Partnership Against Crime said: "The new spray systems will give shopkeepers in vulnerable areas added protection and peace of mind. If the worst happens and a robber does enter the premises by force, they will be sprayed with the DNA which links them instantly to the crime scene. However, it is extremely likely that they would flee with no gain as soon as they are sprayed, as the DNA fear-factor among criminals is high."

PC Simon Harwood of Darwen neighbourhood policing, said: "As soon as we pick up a culprit, it will be immediately obvious to us if they have been in a particular shop at a particular time. It's a deterrent."

Overseas, the product has been installed successfully in some McDonald's restaurants, petrol stations and retail outlets in the Netherlands; and in more than 200 branches of BNZ, New Zealand's biggest bank.

Related topics:  Building access control system   Sensors and detectors   Tagging vandalism and theft prevention 

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