A recent court case in East Yorkshire has highlighted how forensic marking technology is evolving beyond theft prevention to become a powerful tool in safeguarding vulnerable individuals. A woman targeted in a prolonged campaign of stalking successfully used a SmartWater spray to mark her attacker, providing irrefutable evidence that supported his conviction.
Between 3 and 29 November last year, Neil Leddon, 54, of Howden, persistently stalked and harassed the woman, following her, photographing her without consent, and breaching bail conditions in the process. The situation escalated when he deliberately collided with her vehicle after pursuing her in his own car.
It was at this point that the victim deployed a SmartWater forensic spray, provided by Humberside Police’s Domestic Abuse and Safeguarding Investigation Team (DASIT). Initially designed for property marking, SmartWater now offers personal defence applications—its traceable, invisible liquid carries a unique forensic code that links an individual to a specific incident or location. Once sprayed, the substance remains on the skin, hair and clothing and is almost impossible to remove.
Detective Inspector Helen Collier, who led the investigation, said: “SmartWater is proving to be a game-changer. It gave us strong forensic evidence that linked Leddon to the scene, strengthening the case and ultimately contributing to his guilty plea.”
Leddon appeared at Hull Crown Court, where he pleaded guilty to stalking, careless driving and driving without insurance. He is due to be sentenced in June.
The deployment of SmartWater in domestic abuse and stalking cases has been part of a growing initiative by police forces in the UK since mid-2024. It complements traditional investigative work and is used in combination with CCTV evidence, officer support, and victim protection measures.
“Technology like this empowers victims and strengthens our ability to intervene early and decisively,” Collier added. “It’s one thing to report a crime—it’s another to have forensic proof that can’t be dismissed.”
SmartWater’s application in personal safety follows years of success in deterring theft and securing property. Its use in safeguarding environments—particularly in domestic abuse scenarios—demonstrates how security technology is being adapted to serve more human-centric needs.
This case serves as a powerful example of how proactive policing, supported by innovative technology, is closing the gap between victimisation and justice. It also raises awareness about how tech can be a force multiplier in supporting vulnerable individuals and holding offenders accountable.