Sticky Justice! Kent Police Nab Stalker Using Sneaky Forensic Grease
Grease Under the Microscope
Kent Police have taken crime-fighting up a notch with a clever new trick. They’re using a special forensic grease that lights up under UV light to catch stalkers red-handed. Usually used to spot thieves, this grease reveals if someone’s touched an object – perfect for tracking repeat offenders.
Window Grease Leads Straight to Prison
The East Kent Proactive Domestic Abuse Team sprayed the mysterious liquid on a stalking victim’s window in Ashford. The victim had reported harassment from a man recently released from prison who broke a restraining order.
On April 10, the stalker was spotted lurking outside the victim’s home. He bolted before police could arrest him. But just days later, officers found him at the same address on April 18. This time, forensic grease on his body warmer confirmed he had been there.
Offender Jailed Thanks to Forensic Proof
Marley Edmed, 25, formerly of Laurens Van Der Post Way, Ashford, faced justice swiftly. He admitted to two breaches of the restraining order and was locked up for 46 weeks after his court appearance on April 19 at Folkestone Magistrates’ Court.
“Protecting victims of stalking, harassment and domestic violence is our number one priority,” said Detective Inspector Zoe Wilczek. “We’ll use any tool at our disposal to make that happen.”
“This is the first time in Kent this forensic grease has been used in a domestic abuse case. It helped secure a conviction and quickly put a repeat offender behind bars.”
“The method has proved effective, and we will keep using it to safeguard victims and hold offenders accountable.”
Raising Stalking Awareness Nationwide
Kent Police are backing Stalking Awareness Week, a national campaign by the Suzy Lamplugh Trust running since April 22, 2024. The campaign shines a light on stalking behaviours and their devastating impact.
During the week, officers are engaging with the public to raise awareness and encourage victims to come forward. For more info on spotting and stopping stalkers, click here.
