With Schoolies kicking off, Sunshine Coast police have issued a timely reminder that there may be opportunists targeting school leavers’ drinks whilst they are out and about celebrating the end of school.
Between 15 and 16 November, Sunshine Coast police recorded an alleged drink spiking incident involving a 16-year-old student at a party in Coolum.
The Child Protection Investigation Unit are investigating the incident.
Sunshine Coast District Officer Superintendent Craig Hawkins is urging the community to be aware of their surroundings when ordering and drinking alcohol.
“I encourage all school leavers to make responsible choices, watch your mates and stick together when you’re out and about,” Superintendent Hawkins said.
Sunshine Coast officers will be patrolling the main areas that school leavers tend to visit including Noosa Main Beach, any of the Safe Night Precincts and shopping areas.
“We want everyone to have a great week however, anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated.”
Drink spiking is adding alcohol or drugs to someone’s drink without their knowledge or consent.
According to the Queensland Police Drugs and Alcohol Unit, the most common drug used in drink spiking is alcohol, which may not be noticeable or detected.
Safety tips:
– Consider a practice of no more than two standard drinks in one glass.
– Do not leave your drink unattended.
– Always buy your own drinks.
– Don’t drink or taste anyone else’s drink.
– Don’t accept drinks from strangers.
– Discard your drink if you taste something strange.
If you start to feel strange, sick, or drunk when you know you cannot be drunk, seek assistance with a friend or venue staff or emergency service personnel.
Drink spiking is an offence under section 316A ‘Unlawful Drink Spiking’ the Criminal Code (1899).
