Drug-assisted rape

Drug-assisted rapes are not all that common, but one attack is one too many. Here's how to keep yourself and your friends safe.

Be careful, but know nothing is ever your fault

The facts

• Drug rapes do not seem to be on the increase, but there’s no reason to be complacent.
• The most commonly used rape drug is alcohol.
• Victims are most likely to be targeted in pubs and clubs, but can also be drugged in their own homes or on university campus or at work-related events.

The rapist

• May deliberately set out to ‘spike’ drinks, or may be an opportunist who takes advantage of someone who is already drunk or drugged.
• It is most likely you’ll know your rapist – whether it’s a male friend, colleague, or someone you’ve just started dating.

The victim

• Can be male or female.
• Has little or no memories of the attack in over 80% of cases.

Prevention

Yes, to some extent, it’s important to have common sense when you’re out. Whatever happens, you are NEVER to blame if you have been raped. It is always the rapist’s fault, never yours. However…

• If you’re going out drinking, remember that alcohol can affect your actions and reactions. Be careful.
• Buy bottled drinks and keep your thumb over the top when you’re not drinking.
• Never leave your drink unattended.
• If you return to your drink and it has been topped up, moved, or it looks different in any way, don’t drink from it again.
• Be aware that soft drinks, tea, coffee and hot chocolate can be spiked too.
• Look out for your friends, keep an eye on their drinks. If you think their drink has been spiked, get them out of the situation as fast as possible.

If you think you’ve been spiked

• If you feel unwell, extremely drunk, or sleepy after only one or two drinks, get help straight away. You do not have much time.
• Ask a trusted friend for help. Failing that, go straight to the pub owner or security staff.
• Wherever possible DO NOT accept help from strangers or any male friend or acquaintance who’s behaviour is a bit strange.

If you have been raped, or think you may have been

You’re probably confused and in shock. Remember there is no right or wrong way to behave right now, but reading our article ‘was it rape?’ may help you work out what you want to do next.

• Don’t be scared to report the incident to the police, even if you are a recreational drug user, or have few or no memories of the attack. The sooner it is reported, the greater the likelihood of the offender being brought to justice. The responsibility for an attack always lies solely with the perpetrator.
• You will probably be suffering from trauma, and should seek medical attention and support, even if you do not want to report the attack to the police. Rape Crisis can refer you to local services for confidential help and counselling.
• Most drugs leave the body in less than 72 hours, so try not to urinate until you have had a medical examination, or keep a sample of your urine.
• If your clothes etc have vomit on them, it may contain whatever drug was used, and should be kept as evidence.