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Security: date rape drugs reported in use on campus

This semester, Grinnell College Security sent out two different campus bulletins warning students that date-rape drugs may be on campus. While it appears there were no assaults or attacks due to these drugs, the administration is urging students to take extra precautions.

Security Director Steve Briscoe says this is not the first time these types of drug use has been suspected on campus. "I sent [security bulletins] out twice last semester ? and two times this semester," he said.

According to both Briscoe and Vice President of Student Services Tom Crady, multiple students came to the administration "We had some students report to us that they'd been given a very strong tranquilizer," said Crady.

These students were not tested for any date rape drugs, according to Briscoe. "The reports they were giving were in line with the symptoms they'd exhibit were they on drugs," he said.

Crady spoke with Grinnell police recently in response to campus concerns. "They indicated there'd been some problems in town," he said. Security and the police department are working together to find more information.

"If we catch who's doing this, there are going to be some serious consequences," said Briscoe. "It's not going to be taken lightly." Briscoe hopes students will come forward with any information about the presence of date rape drugs on campus. "If somebody has information and wants to be anonymous, they can call me and I will assure them of their anonymity," he said.

Beyond these investigations, the SGA Safety and Security Advisory Committee (SSAC) is currently looking into preventative measures. According to Briscoe, the committee will look into products that test drinks for these drugs.

Even though it appears no assaults occurred as a result of these drugs this year, there have been in the past. "We have had situations in years past where we believe there have been drugs associated with date rapes," said Crady.

Until Security knows more, Briscoe asks students to pay attention to their surroundings. "Don't leave your drink out. Don't drink other people's drinks," he said, "and if you feel you've been [a] victim, get help."

Briscoe recommends calling a number of resources including DVA/SAC, the Grinnell police department, the Chaplain's Office, an RLC, Security or the Health Center.

-Abby Rapoport

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