Spiked Drinks

Far from being a myth, the spiking of drinks is a problem in the Manly area.

The term ‘drink spiking’ refers to drugs or alcohol being added to a drink (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) without consent of the person consuming it. Drink spiking may or may not involve further crimes such as theft or sexual assault. The use of drugs and poisons (ie ‘spiking') to commit an offence such as sexual assault or to cause harm to a person is an offence under the Crimes Act 1900 (NSW) with penalties ranging from 5 years to 25 years imprisonment. Recent research shows that two thirds of drink spiking incidents occur in licensed premises.

Motives

  • About one third of all drink spiking are estimated to involve sexual assault.
  • About five percent of reported incidents involve robbery.
  • “Prank spikings” are also reported where the intention is to see what happens or to have a joke.

Substances

The most common substance abused is alcohol, however amphetamines, benzodiazepines, cocaine, GHB, ketamine and ecstasy have been used, which can came in many forms including powder, tablet or liquid. Many of these substances can become life threatening and potentially fatal when given in a higher than normally prescribed dose and/or mixed with alcohol or other substances.

Physical Signs

Individuals may react differently, but signs may include:

  • Impaired judgment
  • Disinhibition, dizziness and confusion
  • An individual may appear intoxicated after consuming a non-alcoholic beverage, or after only a small amount of alcohol
  • Unexplained trouble with motor coordination, unexplained drowsiness or a loss of consciousness

Never assume you know what someone has had.

Advice for Patrons

  • Only accept drinks from people you know and trust.
  • Only drink beverages you have opened or seen opened.
  • Never leave drinks unattended.
  • Do not share or exchange drinks with anyone.
  • Watch out for friends; if they appear disproportionately drunk in relation to the amount of alcohol consumed they may be in danger.
  • Assist friends to get home safely after a night out.
  • Report drink spiking or suspected spiking to staff or police.
  • Anyone who may have consumed a sedative-like substance should be given immediate medical attention.

Advice for Licensees

  • Ensure warning posters or information on spiked drinks is available in your venue.
  • You could set aside a chill out room or safe space for women.
  • Ensure that security staff are visible inside the venue/premises as well as outside.
  • If an intoxicated person appears to be uncomfortable with the person they are leaving with, ask them if they require assistance or a taxi.
  • Ask to see identification of the person/s and record it in the incident book as per RSA requirements.
  • Ensure you have facilities for calling a taxi and a safe waiting area.

What to do if Someone's been Spiked

  • Ensure the victim is OK.
  • Tell a Manager or security.
  • Call the Police.
  • If in doubt call 000.

Further Information (24 hours)

  • Alcohol & Drug Info Service 9361 8000
  • Sexual Assault Service 9926 711
  • Crimestoppers 1800 333 000