Statement from Vice President Ken Zick
Concerning Drugging of Students at Parties

Wake Forest University is concerned about the possibility of students being intentionally drugged while attending parties or visiting bars in the community. Students who are concerned that they may have been victims of this crime have several options in reporting their experiences. They may contact University Police, the University Counseling Center, Campus Crime Stoppers (anonymously, at 758-4477) or a representative of PREPAR (Policy Group for Rape Education, Prevention and Response). Anyone with information that might assist with an investigation of a possible drugging is encouraged to contact University Police or Campus Crime Stoppers.

In the last few years many universities across the nation have reported incidents of rape which are drug related. Various drugs which incapacitate victims have been used to facilitate this crime. In order to combat this threat to safety, Congress enacted the Drug-Induced Rape Prevention and Punishment Act of 1996 which allows for sentences of up to 20 years for possession of a controlled substance with the intent to give it to someone to facilitate a violent crime. At Wake Forest such action will result in expulsion and referral of any evidence to civil authorities for prosecution. Such crimes are abominable.

I encourage you to become acquainted with this threat to your safety. The linked information sheet describes some of the drugs that are commonly used in the perpetration of crime. These drugs are characterized by their capacity to induce amnesia, slow psychomotor responses, nausea, confusion, depressed respiration and seizures. Some cases have resulted in coma, respiratory collapse and death. All students should take precautions to avoid accepting drinks poured or opened by others, and watch out for friends and acquaintances who may be at risk. Students who experience these symptoms should visit the Student Health Service immediately. Generally, urine analysis can detect the presence of these drugs if done within 24 to 36 hours. As you know SHS maintains a policy of confidentiality.

If such practices exist in our community we must do everything to eradicate them. They have no place here. I know that you despair with me that such conduct could ever surface on our campus, and I know that you will help to prevent such practices from causing a tragedy to visit us.

Sincerely yours,

Kenneth A. Zick, Vice President
Student Life & Instructional Resources

Click here for additional information on Rohypnol and GammaHydroxyButyrate (GHB): The "Date Rape" Drugs