Jail for Kensal Green burglar caught by SmartWater technology

McIntosh was caught on CCTV stealing the watch marked by SmartWater (Image: Archant)

Paul James McIntosh, of Earlsmead Road, had no idea he had been sprayed with SmartWater when he stole a watch which had been planted by officers in a sting operation.

Paul James McIntosh has been jailed for two-and-a-half years (Image: Archant)

When the 32-year-old broke into the property police received an activation leading to his arrest and when he was apprehended his jacket was found covered in the special ink that shows up green under special light.

The timepiec, which was marked with the ink, was also found in his possession.

Yesterday at Harrow Crown Court he was jailed for two-and-half years for burglary.

McIntosh asked for seven thefts from motor vehicles, one attempted residential burglary and three residential burglaries to be taken into consideration.

Detective Sergeant Madeline Ryder, Brent SmartWater Project Lead, said: “This is yet another typical example of work completed by Brent Officers. The SmartWater technology in our trap houses and cars is so effective that in less than 72 hours from the trap house being broken into, McIntosh was arrested, interviewed, placed before the Courts and pleaded guilty. In addition, the stolen property was also recovered.

“The trap houses and cars forms part of an overall crime reduction strategy used by Brent police to send a strong message to thieves.

“Don’t come to Brent - our trap cars and trap houses are waiting for you.”

Last October, Yafet Askale, of Harlesden Gardens, Harlesden, was covered in SmartWater after breaking into a trap car near his home.

The 28-year-old was sentenced to 49 hours of community service and ordered to pay £400 costs.