Concerns over drink spiking cases in Lincolnshire
They've been 8 reports this month so far
Last updated 25th Oct 2021
Lincolnshire police say they're concerned about a rise in the number of women in the county reporting their drinks have been spiked during an night out.
There have been 8 reports this month, with others coming forward to talk about historic cases.
Police say whilst there's been no evidence of "injections" which has been the case in places like Nottinghamshire, they're still worried about the numbers of local spiking cases so close together.
The Lincolnshire force has launched "Operation Vicinity" to tackle the issue.
It'll see them working with venues in places like Lincoln.
CCTV will be studied closely, they'll also be extra police patrols and bar staff will receive more training to help them spot the signs.
Some bars are bringing in foil drink toppers to prevent spiking.
Police have also spoken about the "Ask Angela" scheme for anyone concerned during a night out.
They say "if you feel intimidated, uneasy, harassed or uncomfortable because of someone in their venue, you can ask at the bar for Angela and they have protocols in place to address the situation and keep you safe."
"If you have concerns or suspicions about individuals or activity in any Lincolnshire venue, call us on 101 or 999 if it’s an emergency.”
We've spoken to Chief Inspector Phil Baker about the issue of spiking.
He told us "it must be very harrowing to become a victim of this because the symptoms and signs we start to see are lowered inhibitions, loss of balance, visual problems, confusion can set in and ultimately you can become unconscious"
Police are urging anyone affected by a suspected spiking to call them at the earliest opportunity.