redDNA is deployed across Salford as a deterrent to 'Metal theft' - Oct 2010

Salford Council crackdown on school lead thieves.

 
A hi-tech device, called RedDNA is being used to help deter thieves from stealing lead off school roofs in Salford.
 
Since January the theft of lead from roofs has costs schools in the city around £115,000 to replace or repair buildings affected by water damage.
 
Now, Salford City Council has rolled out new technology called RedWeb RedDNA across its schools to help keep thieves away.

The invisible grease-like substance has been sprayed on to lead on school roofs. If touched it will dye the skin and clothes and is detectable under UV light allowing the police to catch thieves red-handed.
 
Each roof has been coated with a unique DNA formula which can be traced back to the individual school. This makes it easier for the police to identify stolen lead in scrap yards where thieves often take it to be cashed in.
 
As an extra measure to deter thieves, lead is no longer being used to replace school roofs damaged by vandals. Instead a lead-free material will be fitted to roofs which is not valuable or desirable to thieves.
 
Councillor Margaret Morris, the City Council's Lead Member for Children's Services said: "The theft of precious metals is a problem up and down the country and in many cases its the public that end up having to pay the price.''
 
"When lead is taken from our school roofs it's costing a lot of taxpayers' money in repair works and it's the children that  miss out because it's cash that should be spent on them.
 
"Only recently we heard how brass memorial plaques were stolen from a cemetery and we must and are doing something to help put a stop to it."
 
 
 
Chief Superintendent Mulligan from Greater Manchester Police's Salford Division said: "The new technology will help us catch those who are responsible for this type of crime and act as a deterrent to anyone thinking of carrying out lead thefts''
 
"Information received from members of the public has already led to two arrests and we urge the community to continue to report suspicious behaviour to police on 0161 872 5050."

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