DeterTech has announced the immediate availability of SmartSpray for rental or purchase.
The company states that it is considered a game-changer in tackling retail crime as it enables police to forensically link masked offenders back to the scene of their crime, even weeks after they’ve left the store.
DeterTech highlights that retail crime is at its highest level on record with over 2,000 incidents of violence and abuse per day, reported in the British Retail Consortium’s Annual Crime Survey.
A key factor is perpetrators’ feeling emboldened that they can anonymously steal, assault and abuse staff and escape before security or police can intervene.
While in-store CCTV is effective, it is easily defeated by the most organised and violent offenders who choose to obscure their face.
The company highlights that the SmartSpray system can be deployed standalone or integrated with the existing security system.
When triggered, it releases a precise spray of SmartWater, a forensic liquid that contains a code unique to each specific store.
This glows under UV light and remains on skin and clothing for weeks, allowing police to identify suspects and pursue convictions.
DeterTech’s forensic scientists provide analysis and testimony in support of a conviction to the police and courts free of charge.
Furthermore, they need only a speck to conclusively link an individual back to the scene of their crime.
The company states that SmartSpray is available for rental or purchase on flexible terms, including installation and servicing.
DeterTech has also announced that it will provide unlimited refills free of charge following any activation for which a crime reference number is supplied.
BT is one of the first retailers to have deployed SmartSpray in selected stores.
Richie Iwanoff, Corporate Investigations Team Manager, BT said: “The well-being of our staff and customers is our number one priority.
“We’re proud to be using cutting-edge solutions to keep them safe at all times. I sleep easier knowing criminals will think twice before targeting us,” Iwanoff added.
Gary Higgins, Director of Security and Risk, DeterTech commented: “SmartSpray has been very well received by both retailers and the police who recognise it will deter offences and help put violent criminals behind bars.
“It supports our purpose here at DeterTech of working with businesses and communities every day to provide greater peace of mind,” Higgins added.
Hazel Goss, Development Officer, Secured by Design stated: “This is exactly the kind of collaboration we want to see from retailers, security providers and law enforcement.
“Enhancing the police’s chances of unmasking offenders is vital in combating retail crime, which is sadly soaring across the country,” Goss concluded.
