With college back in session, Dubuque Police would like to remind everyone of the potential use and dangers of the drugs Rohypnol and “GHB” in bars, at parties and other social gatherings.
With college back in session, Dubuque Police would like to remind everyone of the potential use and dangers of the drugs Rohypnol and “GHB” in bars, at parties and other social gatherings. GHB (Gamma Hydroxybutyric Acid) and Rohypnol are commonly referred to as “date-rape drugs” and are especially prevalent in college towns and cities. The drugs come in a variety of forms including powder, liquid and tablet - often resembling the average cold pill. The below listed effects of these drugs are historically notorious for facilitating the sexual abuse of victims who unknowingly ingest them, typically when another person slips the drug into the victim’s drink.
EFFECTS:
- Impairment similar to that caused by excessive alcohol consumption and/or drug use.
- Drowsiness
- Light-headedness
- Staggering
- Confusion
- Vertigo
- Muscle relaxation
- Visual disturbances
- Impairment of psychomotor function
- Amnesia lasting up to 24 hours
PREVENTION:
- Never leave beverages unattended.
- If you suspect beverage tampering or contamination, do not consume.
- Do not accept drinks from someone you don’t know and trust.
- Watch your drink as it’s being made.
- Consider ordering beverages that come sealed and unopened – when ordering, tell the bartender that you will open the beverage on your own.
- Ask those you are with to watch out for you and your drink, and make sure you are doing the same for them.
- Do not drink excessively or engage in any other behavior that negatively impacts one’s judgment.
- If you or someone you know is the victim of a suspected drugging, seek medical attention immediately and report to law enforcement as soon as possible.
Dubuque Police have no confirmed reports of this activity occurring locally, but strongly encourage everyone to strictly abide by the above listed prevention recommendations. Anyone who believes they have been victimized should report the incident to law enforcement as soon as possible.