Marking reduces burglary hot-spot

Greenwich Borough Police approached a BSIA member following the identification of a burglary hot-spot area in the Woolwich Dockyard area of the London Borough of Greenwich.

An area containing approximately 500 homes was identified as being suitable for a pilot test to allow Police to assess the effectiveness of forensic property marking which is based on the principles of human DNA. Forensic marking deters thieves as it contains a code which is unique and can link a thief to a crime scene, therefore providing vital evidence in court. 

Within the 'hot-spot', 95% of the properties used the forensic marking 'kits', which included a large number of repeat victims, to mark their property. Signage, posters and window stickers were then used to deter criminals from operating in the area as well as significant media coverage.  UV lights were not only purchased for all Police stations in the borough, but also for all local stores to prevent any stolen marked property being sold on.

The pilot was a huge success, with an incredible 85% reduction in domestic burglary, 60% reduction in theft from vehicles, and 50% reduction in theft of vehicles.
As a result, Greenwich Borough Police purchased a further 1500 kits to supply to other areas and burglary victims.

Click here to find a BSIA member who can provide you with property marking kits.