Oxford Takes Action Against Drink Spiking
With the new school year underway at the University of Mississippi, the city of Oxford is stepping up efforts to protect locals and students from potential drink spiking incidents at local bars. Recent reports of possible druggings have sparked concern and prompted the Oxford Police Department (OPD) to take a proactive stance.
Investigating Reports
Last week, OPD received several reports of suspected drink spiking incidents, leading them to launch an investigation. According to Officer McCutchen, they are reviewing video footage from the bars to gather more information and ensure that any incidents are dealt with promptly. “We are committed to keeping our community safe and are actively looking into these reports,” McCutchen stated.
Safe Site Tent for Partygoers
In response to these concerns, OPD has set up a Safe Site tent located across from the 11th Street Alley and Funky’s. This tent provides essential resources designed to help individuals protect themselves when enjoying a night out. Among the offerings are special drink coasters that double as testing kits, aimed at helping patrons detect harmful substances like Gamma Hydroxybutyrate (GHB) and Ketamine.
How the Testing Kits Work
These drink coasters work by allowing users to dab a small amount of their drink onto specific test areas on the coaster. After a brief wait, a dark blue color change indicates the possible presence of GHB or Ketamine. Additionally, these coasters come with step-by-step instructions for testing, as well as contact information for OPD and local victim support services.
Nightcap Drink Covers
Another layer of protection available at the tent is the nightcap drink covers. Worn on the wrist like a bracelet, these covers can easily be slipped over an open glass to prevent anyone from tampering with a drink. The availability of these tools aims to enhance the safety of anyone enjoying social outings in Oxford.
Community Safety Tips
Officer McCutchen highlighted the importance of community vigilance. “The big thing is, if you see something, say something,” he emphasized. “Report suspicious activity as quickly as possible. This allows us to investigate and hopefully address any potential threats.” He also urged individuals to stay aware of their surroundings while out.
“Always keep an eye on your drinks. Never leave your drink unattended, and be cautious when accepting drinks from strangers,” McCutchen advised. He further explained that if someone feels different than usual after consuming a drink, especially when they know their limits, they should seek medical attention immediately. “The quicker we can respond, the better chance we have of identifying any substances before they leave your system,” he added.
Conclusion
As students and residents continue to enjoy the local nightlife, the Oxford Police Department is taking active measures to ensure safety while raising awareness about the risks of drink spiking. Providing resources like the Safe Site tent and educating the public remains a priority for OPD as they work to keep the community safe from harmful incidents.
