Nearly 5,000 Spiking Cases Reported Across England and Wales
Police forces in England and Wales revealed almost 5,000 reports of needle and drink spiking in the year ending September 2022. As the spiking epidemic grows, law enforcement is cracking down hard to protect the public.
What Is Spiking? Dangerous and Illegal
Spiking involves slipping alcohol or drugs into someone’s drink or body without their consent. Even worse is needle spiking — injecting someone with drugs against their will. Both acts are criminal, regardless of any other offences.
Police Step Up to Hunt Down Spikers
Detective Chief Inspector Gemma Vinton from Wiltshire Police said: “We are working closely with bars and partners through projects like Project Vigilant, sending plainclothes officers to spot predatory behaviour.”
She added: “We build understanding with venues and take every report seriously, focusing on making the night-time economy a hostile place for offenders.”
Deputy Chief Constable Maggie Blyth, the National Police Chiefs’ Council lead on Violence Against Women and Girls, urged victims to come forward swiftly. She said:
“Report early and get tested by police. Even if you’ve knowingly taken drugs, don’t let that stop you. It’s vital we have the full picture to catch offenders.”
What To Do If You Think You’ve Been Spiked
- Call 999 or 101 to report to police immediately, even if no other crime occurred.
- If out at a bar or club, tell staff who can support you.
- For injury or worrying symptoms, ring NHS 111.
- If sexually assaulted, visit your nearest Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) for medical care and forensic exams.
- Contact Victim Support confidentially on 08 08 16 89 111 for help and information.
Testing: Quick Action Is Crucial
Police will take a non-invasive urine test. Some drugs clear from the body within 12 hours, so testing ASAP is vital. Others stay longer, so tests can be done up to seven days after the incident.
Testing by hospitals or GPs isn’t enough for police evidence — only police tests can back charges and convictions.
Be honest about any alcohol or drug use to help get accurate results. Remember, it’s not a crime to have illegal drugs in your system unless you’re driving.
Test results take around three weeks and police will discuss them with you.
Don’t suffer in silence. Report spiking and help put predators behind bars.
