Pubdate: Thu, 30 Dec 2004
Source: Birmingham Post (UK)
Copyright: 2004 Trinity Mirror plc
Contact:  http://icbirmingham.icnetwork.co.uk/post/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3385

POLICE ACTION ON DATE RAPE DRUGS

ANTI-drug devices will be issued to thousands of New Year revellers in 
Midland clubs and pubs to protect them against having their drinks spiked.

Police are taking action to combat an increased threat of date rape and 
other drugs being popped into drinks in crowded bars.

Devices known as 'spikeys' will be offered to revellers in areas including 
Tamworth, Lichfield, Burntwood, Cannock and Stafford.

Spikeys are small tubes for drinkers to to insert in the neck of a bottle. 
Then they sip their booze through a straw. "Spikeys will make it more 
difficult for anyone to put a drug into a drink," said Sgt Jim

Mills, of Staffordshire Police's community safety unit. "It's easy to get 
caught up in the new year celebrations, but it is important to keep an eye 
on your drink and be aware of personal safety. "Drink spiking is becoming 
more prevalent with victims being vulnerable to rape, assault or theft of 
their belongings."

Date rape-style drugs such as rohypnol, ketamine and GHB can be slipped 
into drinks, with an increased danger because some of the drugs have no 
taste or smell. Sgt Mills warned people not to leave a drink unattended or 
accept drinks from strangers.
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MAP posted-by: Beth