Crackdown on Drink-Spiking: New Law to Jail Predators

PM Sir Keir Starmer Announces Specific Criminal Offence for Drink-Spiking

DRINK-spiking is set to become a specific criminal offence, making predators more likely to be jailed, according to PM Sir Keir Starmer.

New Measures to Combat Drink-Spiking

The aim is to simplify the current system where spiking falls under assault or the Offences Against the Person Act. Workers in the night-time economy will receive training on prevention, victim support, and evidence collection to improve response times for victims.

Impact and Response

With nearly 7,000 reported incidents in England and Wales last year, the true figure is believed to be much higher. The new law aims to make it easier for victims to come forward and for authorities to prosecute offenders.

Government's Stance

Sir Keir emphasized the importance of cracking down on spiking, particularly to protect young women from being targeted for sexual offenses. The government is calling for coordinated action to address this issue across various sectors.

Minister's Statement

Home Office minister Jess Phillips condemned spiking as a heinous act that poses a year-round threat, not just during the festive season.