Commissioner calls for people to be spike aware

Police and Crime Commissioner Jane Mudd is calling for residents to be aware and vigilant to the dangers of spiking.

Spiking is when someone puts alcohol or drugs into another person’s drink, food, or body without their consent or knowledge. It can leave victims vulnerable to other crimes such as sexual assault or theft, and also have long term effects on their physical and mental health.

The call comes during Spiking Intensification Week, which is a nation-wide coordination of police action to tackle spiking in the night-time economy.
Police and Crime Commissioner Jane Mudd said: “Spiking of any kind can have serious effects on the victim’s physical and mental health. It can be a way for perpetrators to commit more serious crimes and it can ruin lives.

“Reports of spiking remain low in Gwent, however, we suspect that it is an underreported crime. I would urge everyone to be alert to the dangers of spiking and if you have been a victim, please report it to the police.”

How to report spiking

If you think you or a friend has been spiked, it’s important to tell someone as soon as you can.

• Alert a member of staff or security if you're at a venue.
• Stay with your friend and keep talking to them.
• Don’t let them go home on their own or leave with someone you don’t know.
• Report to the police online, on 101 or, in an emergency, call 999.

If you or someone else have symptoms

• If you are worried call 111.
• Call an ambulance if the symptoms get worse.

If you think there may have been a sexual assault

• Go to your nearest sexual assault referral centre (SARC) for specialist care and support. For further information on SARCs and details of your nearest one, visit www.nhs.uk/sarcs

Letting people know gives the best chance of looking after you and gathering any evidence where a crime may have taken place.

We know it can be scary to report being spiked, but the police are here to help you. They will listen to you and take you seriously.