Sussex Police drinks spiking operations

Reports of drinks tampering and needle sticking have increased since the beginning of October and Sussex Police have reacted with increased patrols and investigations that have led to three arrests.

Licensed venues have also enhanced their security efforts with increased searches at the door, extra training for staff, lids for cups, testing strips, on-site medics and safe spaces for people in distress.

Chief Superintendent Justin Burtenshaw said: “The reaction to these increased reports from us as a force and our partners across the county has been robust and I’ve been really impressed with how proactive licensed venues have been in taking strong measures to keep their customers safe and send a clear message to those who want to cause harm that they will be caught”.

If you believe you have been a victim of spiking on a night out, report it to bar staff or a police officer as soon as possible. You can also report crimes online through the Sussex Police website, via 101 or by calling 999 in an emergency.