PCC calls for tougher spiking laws

Police and Crime Commissioner, Donna Jones, is calling on the government to strengthen the laws around spiking.

As part of the Crime and Policing Bill, which is currently making its way through the House of Lords, spiking will soon become a separate criminal offence.

It means people will face up to 10 years in prison for administering a harmful substance ‘with intent to injure, aggrieve or annoy.’

But the PCC wants to see all forms of spiking become a criminal offence, not just in situations where there is a clear motive.

It follows a rise in incidents of so-called ‘prank-spiking’ where drugs are put into people’s drinks ‘for fun’ without malicious intent.

PCC Donna Jones said: “Spiking is not to be taken lightly. It’s extremely dangerous.

“Those who administer drugs to unwitting victims, regardless of whether they meant to cause serious harm or not, should be treated in exactly the same way as someone who’s done it for sexual purposes.

“It can make people very unwell, leave them extremely vulnerable and perpetrators should feel the full impact of the law.

“If you think you’ve been spiked or you know someone who has, please report it to the police as soon as possible. You will be taken seriously and it will be investigated thoroughly.

“As Police Commissioner, I am committed to making our streets safer to enable people to enjoy the pubs and clubs Hampshire and the Isle of Wight have to offer without concern.

“We’re working hard to target potential perpetrators and will continue to do so in order to reduce these abhorrent crimes.”

Spiking is when someone puts alcohol or drugs into another person’s drink or body without their consent or knowledge.

Common spiking symptoms are confusion, lack of coordination, slurred speech, nausea, hallucinations, vomiting, paranoia and unconsciousness.

Recent reporting data for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight Constabulary shows that between 1 Sept 2024 and 31 Aug 2025, the force received 169 reports of spiking; 120 were suspected drink spiking and 20 alleged needle spiking.

But it’s believed that’s only the tip of the iceberg due to under-reporting.

Spiking is traditionally targeted at women and girls.

That’s why the PCC’s Youth Commission will be supporting Student Union events at the University of Winchester and Solent University on the 25^th November to mark national White Ribbon Day.

They’ll be offering general advice and guidance to students about spiking; dispelling harmful myths and promoting early reporting.

As part of her commitment to tackling violence, especially against women and girls, the PCC has also provided 50,000 anti-spiking drink covers which will be distributed during the events, and to students at the University of Portsmouth, to ensure people can enjoy a night out without worrying about their safety.

People can also download personal safety apps on their mobile phones which have been endorsed by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary.

Hollie Guard App – HollieGuard – Personal Safety App

Help protect yourself, a friend or a family member with Hollie Guard, a personal alarm, deterrent, evidence catcher and more.

Bright Sky App – https://www.hestia.org/brightsky

Bright Sky is a safe, easy to use app and website that provides practical support and information on how to respond to domestic abuse.