Shield Update: More Than 3,000 Suspects Scanned For SelectaDNA

MORE than 3,000 suspects have been screened in custody for traces of SelectaDNA forensic marking as part of Cheshire Police’s Operation Shield campaign.

The operation, which began in Cheshire in March 2015, is using SelectaDNA as a deterrent to burglary from homes and business across the county and is already proving to be effective. Operation Shield has recorded the lowest number of burglaries for the month of March in 25 years. 

If someone breaks into protected premises and activates one of the SelectaDNA Spray systems that are being installed at selected businesses, the spray emits a clear DNA-coded mist which cannot be rubbed off and sits on skin and clothing for weeks. 

Everyone who is arrested in Cheshire is being screened by police under a special ultra violet light in custody. If they have committed a crime in an Operation Shield area, they will be marked, and the unique DNA will link them directly to the individual crime scene. This can make it easier for police to secure a conviction.