Crime & Safety

Property Has Own 'DNA' in Farmington Crime-Fighting Tool

An adhesive-backed decal that can be affixed to property contains a personal identification number entered in national database.

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Beth Dalbey, Patch StaffVerified Patch Staff Badge

FARMINGTON, MI – The Farmington Public Safety Department is the first in Michigan to use new forensics technology that is called “DNA for property” to help track stolen property.

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Adhesive in decals created by ProtechDNA contain thousands of tiny microdots etched with a personal identification number that is entered into a national crime database, according to a news release. The decals can be affixed to various pieces of personal property.

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ProtechDNA President Shawn Andreas said the tool is already being used thousands of police agencies across the country, and is just now being rolled out to the Midwest.

Farmington Public Safety Commander Justin DuLong said one of the most difficult parts of investigating property crimes is identifying victims.

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"Programs like ProtechDNA allow detectives to return property to the rightful owners and assists the police in securing convictions against suspects who steal from others,” he said.

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