Sudden changes in mood, behavior, alertness and intoxication level are red flags
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National Sexual Assault Hotline
Having your drink spiked without your knowledge or consent is commonly called “being roofied.” And it can make sexual violence more likely.
The threats are real, but you aren’t powerless in the face of them. And the possibility of something going wrong shouldn’t keep you from going out and enjoying your life.
Understanding the what and how of “date rape drugs” improves your odds of avoiding it.
Injury. The mental and physical impairment that roofies cause can be dangerous even if nobody attempts to harm you. Even basic tasks like walking down the stairs, crossing the street or driving can become dangerous when someone has drugged you.
“Roofied in Texas” refers to the criminal act of someone secretly placing drugs into another person’s drink, a serious issue that has been reported in various Texas cities, particularly in Austin and Houston. This is a felony offense under Texas law.
Legal and Medical Information
- Legality: In Texas, administering a substance to another person without their knowledge or consent is treated as a felony, potentially leading to severe penalties, especially if it’s connected to aggravated sexual assault.
- Common Drugs Used: Date-rape drugs like Rohypnol (illegal in the US), GHB, and ketamine are often used because they are colorless, odorless, and tasteless. Other substances, including certain prescription or over-the-counter drugs, can also be used to incapacitate a victim.
- Symptoms: Symptoms can include drowsiness, disorientation, memory blackouts, an inability to speak or walk, and even seizures.
- Testing: Drug testing to confirm the presence of these substances should be done as quickly as possible, as some drugs have a short half-life in the body. Forensic exams and toxicology testing are often available at hospitals in conjunction with sexual assault service providers.
Safety and Prevention Tips
- Watch Your Drink: Never leave your drink unattended.
- Go with Friends: Go out with trusted friends and look out for each other.
- Decline Drinks from Strangers: Be cautious about accepting drinks, especially open ones or shots, from people you don’t know.
- Trust Your Instincts: If you or a friend feel unusually intoxicated or unwell after a certain number of drinks, seek help immediately.
- Inform a Trusted Person: Share your location with a trusted individual when out.
- Be Aware of Surroundings: Be mindful of people’s behavior; unusual aggression or persistence in offering drinks may be a warning sign.
If You or Someone You Know Is Victimized
Seek Support: Contact resources like the RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) hotline or a local sexual assault service provider for confidential support and guidance.
Get to a Safe Place: Move away from the situation and call a trusted person or emergency services.
Seek Medical Attention: Go to a hospital immediately for a medical examination and toxicology testing. This is crucial for both health and evidence collection.
Contact Police: File a police report. Law enforcement can investigate the incident and potentially obtain security footage from the establishment.
