Drug Facilitated Sexual Assault

Alcohol has been used for countless years to facilitate sexual violation and has been seen as the major " rape drug", but now, other drugs that are more readily accessible and often cheaper than alcohol, are being used. These drugs have similar side effects to alcohol, but are much quicker to act and therefore more dangerous.

The drugs mentally and physically incapacitate victims, particularly when used in combination with alcohol and are capable of producing a condition in which events that occur during the time the drug is effective, are forgotten. It is illegal to possess or purchase most of these drugs, however, that does not reduce their existence or popularity.

These types of drugs are being used to spike alcoholic/non alcoholic drinks as a way to incapacitate potential victims, solely for the purpose of sexual violation. They can be detected through urine and blood tests, although testing must be carried out as soon as possible following ingestion. Anyone who believes they may have been given drugs should be taken to a hospital Accident & Emergency, a doctor, the police or should call 999 for an ambulance. If you ,or someone with you, can - try to keep a sample of the alcohol for analysis.

Be Aware:

•  Do not leave drinks unattended.
•  Be careful whom you accept a drink from.
•  At bars, only accept a drink from the bar staff.
•  At parties, do not accept drinks from anyone other than trusted friends.

Be alert to the behaviour of friends. Be concerned if someone appears to be more drunk than they should be. There is a trend emerging in which rape/sexual assault victims, (female and male) have reported blackouts and memory loss that could not be explained by alcohol or other common drugs. Putting substances in beverages has become an effective way to facilitate sexually violating crimes and it is on the increase.