Community Advisory: Drink Spiking in Boston Bars

Dear Emerson Community,

The Emerson College Police Department has received information from the Boston Police Department about an increase in reports of spiked beverages at bars across the city.

Drink spiking involves an offender adding a scentless, colorless, and tasteless drug to the drink of an unsuspecting victim. The effects of drink spiking can vary. Symptoms may include loss of balance, visual impairment, confusion, or nausea. Drink spiking is a crime.

The Emerson College Police Department would like to remind all community members of the following ways to safeguard yourself and others from drink spiking:

·         Do not accept drinks from strangers

·         If you did not see your drink poured, do not drink it

·         If you are unsure about any of the ingredients in your beverage, don’t drink it

·         Keep an eye on your friends and their drinks

·         Never leave your drink unattended

·         Avoid sharing drinks with others

·         Keep your hand covered over your drink when you’re not looking at it.

·         Please be aware of any uncharacteristic behavior from your acquaintances, and be wary of strangers who attempt to separate individuals from their friends

·         If you believe your drink may be spiked or observe an individual spiking someone else’s drink, immediately call the police and notify the bartender or management

The Emerson College Police Department is available to assist any member of the College community in an emergency. If you have encountered a possible drink-spiking incident, please contact the Emerson College Police Department at 617-824-8555, or call 911.

Sincerely,
Chief Bob Smith