Action taken across Sussex to raise spiking awareness
At the end of September, enhanced work took place across the Sussex Police force to help prevent spiking offences and raise awareness among those enjoying the night-time economy.
The spiking intensification period, which ran between September 21 and 29, focused on both proactive action and prevention through partnership working with licensed venues, universities, and local organisations, providing information about the risks of spiking, how to recognise the signs, and the steps that can be taken to reduce opportunities for offending.
The Business Crime Reduction Partnership also worked closely with venues throughout the intensification period, providing targeted communications, training opportunities for staff, and resources to ensure customers are kept safe during their visits.
The intensification coincided with Freshers' Week, resulting in increased engagement with students and young people.
A number of licensed premises were visited by officers, with particular attention given to seafront pubs and clubs. Venue staff were encouraged to remain vigilant, monitor unattended drinks, review toilet safety measures, and consider wider safeguarding practices.
During the enhanced action, officers also held several pop-up engagement events at university campuses, offering crime prevention advice, reassurance, guidance on reporting incidents, and information about spiking. Students were also provided with StopTopps, which are anti-spiking drink covers designed to help reduce the risk of drinks being tampered with.
Additional officers were deployed across the night-time economy, providing a heightened visible policing presence to support those enjoying a night out, offer reassurance, and help keep people safe.