Spiking prevention as part of Police campaign to safeguard party-goers

Friday, 2 May 2025 11:51

Police in Newquay are stepping up patrols to keep partygoers safe and help prevent incidents of spiking.

One of the key focuses for officers in Newquay's neighbourhood Policing team is prevention and awareness work around spiking – with a focus not only on giving advice on how to stay safe, but also on targeting potential perpetrators.

Spiking is when drugs – prescription or illegal – are dropped into a drink, injected, or put into a vape without the consumer’s knowledge or consent.

Inspector Steve Johnson, who oversees the neighbourhood teams in the area, said:
“Newquay is a popular hub for people to visit and enjoy a night out. Whilst it is a safe town, we know how vital it is to play our part in making sure everyone who visits feels safe. We also want people to know that if they are in need of help, our officers are there for them.”

In April, local police in Newquay received three reports from people who believed they had been spiked. Following investigations into the suspected incidents, none returned a positive result for harmful substances. Nevertheless, it was very disturbing for the victims. It is important to report such incidents to the police, whatever the circumstances.

“During the evenings, it’s usual for police to receive an increase in reports of offences relating to alcohol, drugs and violence,” said Inspector Steve Johnson.

“It’s important for us to also recognise that during this time of evening, we can see individuals committing other offences like spiking. Although this remains unusual, it is a serious offence and one we are determined to tackle proactively.

“The close working relationships we’ve built with bars and clubs across the town have led to improved crime reporting, a better response to incidents, and wrap-around support for vulnerable people. This will continue throughout the year.”

Insp Johnson commented on the ongoing work to safeguard against spiking:
“Part of our approach involves visiting the venues, speaking with staff and the general public. By raising awareness of the signs to spot when it comes to spiking, both for a possible perpetrator or victim, we can keep more people safe and disrupt potential offenders. It’s simple, but effective.”

In addition to education, police will be carrying out regular high-visibility patrols during the evenings and late nights.

Insp Johnson added:
“Our patrols are intelligence-led, which means officers are located in areas and times where crime would be most likely to occur. This means they can effectively safeguard the public and prevent crime from happening.

“We know that seeing a police officer goes a long way in reassuring the public and deterring people from committing crime. So we will continue to be visible on your streets.

“We would like to make it clear that victims are never to blame. We are here to listen and keep you safe – your reports of spiking will be taken seriously and perpetrators will be pursued.”

Anyone who thinks they may have been spiked should tell a trusted friend or a member of venue staff or security as soon as possible. Anyone who is a victim of spiking should also report it to police to give the best chances of capturing evidence.

Tackling violence against women and girls during the evenings is a priority for Devon & Cornwall Police.

“Please also make use of the other support initiatives in place, like Ask for Angela. We’re grateful to everyone who works in the evening and night-time economy who help support our joint efforts to keep everyone safe.

“So, if you’re on a night out in Newquay – have a great time, but please make sure you keep safe. Help and support is available if you need it.”

For more information about spiking and to report an incident, visit: www.devon-cornwall.police.uk/spiking

If you have any information or concerns about crime in Newquay, please report it to Devon & Cornwall Police online via the website or by calling 101.

You can also report information anonymously to Crimestoppers UK on 0800 555111. Your information could help save a life. If a crime is taking place, call 999.