Crimestoppers is raising awareness of spiking in the North East
They are urging anyone who thinks they or a friend may have been spiked to act quickly and speak up anonymously
Crimestoppers is urging the public to share any information about spiking across Northumberland and Tyne & Wear as part of a new awareness campaign.
The charity is asking people to speak up anonymously if they know where spiking is happening, or who may be involved, so action can be taken to help prevent further harm.
Spiking can happen anywhere and in a number of different ways, including by adding alcohol or drugs to someone’s drink or by tampering with a vape without their knowledge.
Crimestoppers is also highlighting “doubling up”, where extra alcohol is added to a drink without the drinker’s knowledge, which can be harder to spot but can be just as dangerous.
Working alongside partners including Northumbria Police, the campaign aims to raise awareness of the signs of drink and vape spiking, the symptoms to look out for, and the serious impact it can have on the victim.
Information passed to Crimestoppers is 100% anonymous, and even small details can help build a bigger picture of where harm may be taking place.
They say acting quickly is key.
Crimestoppers is encouraging people to share any information they may have about where spiking is taking place and the individuals involved.
All reports to Crimestoppers are 100% anonymous and play a vital role in helping keep communities safe.
Fleur Brown, North East Regional Manager for Crimestoppers, said: “Spiking can have a devastating impact on victims, leaving people feeling vulnerable and unsafe.
"We are asking anyone with information about where spiking is happening, or who may be involved, to tell us anonymously.
"You do not need to know everything, what you know could help stop further harm.”
Signs a drink may have been spiked:
• Excessive bubbles
• Foggy appearance
• Sinking ice
• A change in colour
• Your drink tasting unexpectedly strong or different
Possible indicators for vapes:
• Unusual marks or scratches
• Mismatched parts
• Removed pod
• Discoloured liquid or off flavours
Symptoms of spiking can include:
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Vomiting
• Fatigue
• Memory loss
• Feeling drunk very quickly on a lot less alcohol
If a vape has been tampered with:
• Shortness of breath and coughing.
Crimestoppers can be contacted 100% anonymously.
The charity does not ask for personal details, and information shared cannot be traced back to the person reporting it.
If you have information about spiking, report it anonymously through Crimestoppers-uk.org or Fearless.org.