Greater Sudbury Police continue to investigate scattered reports of women being drugged at nightclubs and bars in downtown Sudbury.
In mid-September, Greater Sudbury Police began investigating after multiple women were taking to hospital on the evening of Saturday, Sept. 17 after experiencing symptoms consistent with having been drugged while visiting various entertainment establishments in the downtown core.
GSPS said at the time detectives with the Criminal Investigations Division were investigating the reports in order to determine the number of women who experienced these symptoms.
“At this time, we do not have a confirmed location where the incidents may have originated, however, we feel that it is extremely important to share this information with our community,” according to the media release.
In information provided to Sudbury.com, GSPS did not say how many reports they received or how many victims there may be. Police have also not said if testing of the people who complained of symptoms confirmed the presence of an intoxicant.
Reports to police from those who said they were affected described the following symptoms:
- • A sudden feeling of being unwell
- • Unsteadiness
- • Disorientation
- • Vomiting
- • Impaired motor skills
- • Loss of consciousness
“Detectives from Criminal Investigations immediately embarked on an investigation into these incidents,” GSPS spokesperson Kaitlyn Dunn told Sudbury.com.
As that investigation continues, Dunn said police also initiated a media campaign to raise awareness about the incidents and to seek further information or potential victims.
“Further, a partnership with AGCO (the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario) was established to conduct an education initiative with the drinking establishments in the downtown in relation to these incidents,” Dunn said. “Since these initiatives, the incidents reported to police have dramatically decreased in frequency. Detectives continue to investigate the reported incidents and monitoring of the drinking establishments continue jointly with the AGCO.”
Anyone who has information related to these possible incidents to report it to police by phoning 705-675-9171. Anonymous reports can also be made through Crime Stoppers at 705-222-8477.
“If you are going out, always go with someone you know and trust,” police advised in September. “Never leave your drink unattended. If you do, buy another drink. If you begin to experience symptoms associated with being drugged, tell a friend and leave the establishment. If your symptoms require medical attention, attend the hospital and please report the incident to police.”
