Police in Watford are trialling an innovative DNA tagging spray system to combat e-bike-related crimes in the town. Funded by the constabulary's Operation Hotspot budget, the pilot scheme went live earlier this month, marking a significant step in law enforcement strategies to improve public safety.
The DNA tagging spray coats bikes, riders, and passengers with an invisible dye that carries a unique code, detectable only under UV light. This forensically valuable dye remains on skin and clothing for several months, providing irrefutable evidence to link individuals to specific criminal activities.
According to Inspector Dan Jones, who leads the Watford Neighbourhood Policing Team, "This is the first time this system has been used by police in Hertfordshire, and it’s another tool in our box of tactics to make it increasingly difficult for criminals to operate in Watford." Since launching Operation Hotspot in May 2024, there has been a reported 9% reduction in town centre crime and a 15% fall in anti-social behaviour. Despite these improvements, high-powered e-bikes continue to be associated with criminal activities, often putting public safety at risk.
Inspector Jones explained how the spray will enhance their capacity to identify offenders: "The spray will enable us to identify those responsible without the need to engage in risky high-speed pursuits." Officers involved have received training on the proper use of the spray, emphasizing a proactive approach to crime prevention. "Expect a knock on the door," Officer Jones warned offenders, hinting at the increased vigilance in combating e-bike-related crime.
The trial is set to last six months, after which the results will be reviewed. This initiative brings Hertfordshire in line with other UK police forces, such as those in Cambridgeshire and the Metropolitan Police, both of which have successfully used similar tagging systems to secure convictions for moped and mobile phone theft.
In addition to the DNA tagging pilot, the Rural Operational Support Team has recently launched a partner pilot with the farming community, distributing property tagging kits to local businesses aiming to safeguard their equipment against burglary and other acquisitive crimes.
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, expressed his support for the DNA tagging trial, stating: "I am pleased that the DNA tagging spray is being trialled in Watford to tackle illegal nuisance bikes. Irresponsible riding causes significant disruption in our communities and poses serious safety risks." Mayor Taylor emphasized the importance of technology and community policing in tackling issues that affect residents.
"This technology has already been successful in other parts of the country, helping to link offenders to specific crimes. Hopefully, it will be an effective deterrent in Watford during the trial," he added. The Mayor also pointed out that the council is actively reinforcing police efforts, with CCTV operators diligently capturing evidence of dangerous e-bike riding for police investigations.
"It is so important that residents feel safe and not intimidated in our town. I will continue to press the police for further action against anti-social behaviour and nuisance bikes," Mayor Taylor concluded.
With this proactive approach, Watford seeks to enhance its public safety framework and reduce the incidence of e-bike crimes. The DNA tagging spray pilot may pave the way for more advanced policing tactics as authorities adapt to emerging challenges within the community.
As this trial unfolds, local residents remain hopeful that innovative solutions like the DNA tagging spray will effectively curtail the growing concern over e-bike-related offences, making Watford a safer environment for everyone.
