Havering schools excel in crime reduction
Every school in the east London borough of Havering is now being protected by a BSIA members’ DNA forensic marking solution following the introduction of an extensive scheme in the area.
Theft from schools had been a major problem for Havering Local Education Authority (LEA), costing approximately £250,000 over an 18-month period prior to the introduction of the scheme, which originally launched in 2006 using the BSIA members’ permanent marking system. There has only been one burglary reported from a school in the area since then.
In 2008, the members’ latest DNA forensic marking product was introduced to the borough. The product is also in use in many schools throughout the UK, which were previously considered prime targets for thieves due to the wide range of ICT, audio and video equipment they contain.
The police-backed crime reduction initiative led by Havering LEA and Havering Community Safety Partnership has now ensured that all school laptops, whiteboards, PCs, audio equipment and even musical instruments have been marked. The BSIA members’ solution contains a unique DNA code that links each item to the individual school. It does not damage the marked property.
Penny Patterson from Havering LEA said: “Schools in the area have given us positive feedback. They say the product is easy to use and some of the schools have even involved pupils in the process of marking equipment so that they can pass on the message about how important security is at school and at home.”
Local police have also confirmed that the forensic marking is extremely effective at deterring thieves, especially when the scheme is properly advertised and promoted locally with warning posters.
Police forces across the UK routinely scan criminals and suspected stolen property for traces of the marking solution, so criminals know about it and fear its power to link them to the scene of a crime. As a result, the members’ product has a 100% conviction rate.
Click here to find a BSIA member who can provide you with a property marking solution.
