New Year warning on drinks

11:28am Monday 31st December 2007

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NEW Year's Eve revellers have been warned to watch out for spiked drinks tonight.

With thousands of people taking to the pubs, clubs and streets to celebrate, police are urging them to take extra care as the crowds could offer an ideal opportunity for drink-tampering.

Revellers are also being warned not to binge drink because it puts extra pressure on the police and NHS.

There will be an increased police presence on the streets to cope with the huge crowds.

Special Constables will be joining their regular colleagues on patrol in town centres - and around the estates to monitor young people who may indulge in anti-social behaviour.

Dorset Police say people should go out and enjoy themselves - but not spoil the party. They want to raise awareness about alcohol-fuelled disorder and ensure that people do not end up in hospital, being arrested or risk going home with a stranger.

Research shows one in three rapes happen when the victim is drunk.

PC Paul Holman of Weymouth police said an increasing amount of people were complaining of drink spiking, involving drugs or alcohol.

It is difficult to prove as tests have to be carried out at the time, and often complaints are made days later.

However some people blame drink spiking when blackouts are due to the large amount of alcohol they have consumed in an evening.

PC Holman said: "We treat every report seriously.

"Incidents are rare but we are concerned there are people who may attempt to spike drinks with the date rape drug Rohypnol, substances like ketamine or just with stronger alcohol which is more common.

"New Year's Eve could be an opportunity to do this as there are so many people out.

"Rendering someone incapable could be done as a sick joke or for sexual assault."

Police say there are measures drinkers can take to ensure they stay safe on a night out.

They advise people to stay with friends, not to leave drinks unattended, not to accept drinks from strangers and to drink alcohol in moderation.

Forecasters are expecting some light rain tonight but temperatures will remain mild.

Inspector Pete Meteau of Weymouth Police said: "By and large people do behave themselves but it is a very, very busy night and traditionally we do fill up the cells.

"Some people do drink to excess, their behaviour deteriorates and they get arrested. But spoiling everyone's night will not be tolerated."

Inspector Les Fry of Dorchester Police said officers will be proactive and making early arrests.

He warned: "Enjoy the festivities but be aware that any actions you take may have implications for the rest of your lives."