The first major study into alleged "drug rape" cases in the UK found massive evidence that victims had been drinking and no cases of the notorious Rohypnol drug, it has been revealed.

Only two of 120 cases examined by the Association of Chief Police Officers found forensic evidence of "GHB"- the other drug widely linked with the drug rape phenomenon.

But 119 of the 120 alleged victims admitted they had been drinking alcohol and forensic tests found evidence of booze in 52% of cases.

"In most cases, the alleged victims had consumed alcohol voluntarily and, in some cases, to dangerous levels," a spokesman said.

"The report does not seek to deny or neutralise the incidence of drug-facilitated sexual assault but merely view the topic in the context of alcohol and other related issues."

Analysis found 22 alleged victims were two to three times above the legal drink-drive alcohol limit. Additionally, 57 of the 120 people had traces of controlled or prescribed drugs in their systems, including cannabis in 20% of cases, cocaine in 17% and amphetamines (including Ecstasy) in 9%.

In a total of 41 cases an alleged victim had taken both booze and illegal drugs, eight had taken alcohol and prescribed drugs and seven had taken all three.

The report concluded there was no evidence to suggest widespread use of Rohypnol and only "limited traces" of GHB, or gamma-hydroxybutyrate.

Report co-author Dave Gee said: "This study is the first of its kind in the police service and demonstrates the difficulties faced when investigating offences of this type.

"The findings contained within the report will assist forces in investigations and also inform the wider public as to steps one can take to minimise the threat of becoming a victim."

 http://www.guardian.co.uk/uklatest/story/0,,-6217222,00.html

Ed: Note that this UK study mirrors the findings of a similar one carried out in WA a few years back.

As has always been the case, the main date rape drug is self administered alcohol.

Photo: THE WAR ON LEGAL DRUGS

More seniors dying from drinking-related deaths: reports

 http://adelaide.indymedia.org/newswire/display_any/9679

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 http://melbourne.indymedia.org/news/2006/08/118756_comment.php

Cancer warnings needed on alcohol, Salvation Army says

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 http://adelaide.indymedia.org/newswire/display_any/23427

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Drug Action Week in Coffs Harbour

Drug action week saw residents in Coffs Harbour doing outreach actions in the City Center Mall to tell people some truths about drugs.
An open letter to parents & children - Drug Action Week.
Did you know that…….

 http://sydney.indymedia.org/node/37567