SALEM Officer warns of date rape

Limiting alcohol use can reduce the risk of assault and other social hazards, a KSU policewoman said.
By NANCY TULLIS
VINDICATOR SALEM BUREAU
SALEM -- It has happened here.
Alice Ickes, a 20-year veteran of law enforcement and a Kent State University main campus policewoman, was about to give a talk on date-rape drugs and other hazards of socializing. In introducing her, Dr. Stephane E. Booth, KSU Salem campus assistant dean, said a student recently told her she had been drugged in the bar of a Salem restaurant.
Local case: Booth said the student became violently ill, but fortunately, there was someone in the bar whom she trusted to take her home. The student later recalled that she had left her drink unattended while she went to the restroom.
The use of date-rape drugs is widespread, and though some chemical companies have made changes, there are still drugs available that have no taste, color or odor, Ickes said.
Particularly in college settings, students form social groups around certain behaviors, and even the sexual conquest of an unconscious woman is seen as accepted behavior by some, she said.
Limiting alcohol use can reduce the risk of assault or other problems in social settings, Ickes said. Use of date-rape drugs is usually associated with bars or dance clubs, but can occur anywhere alcohol is served, she said.
She recommends women limit themselves to three drinks and men to four. Many people drink at home before even going on a date or to a party, and that can lead to problems before the evening begins, she said.
Using common sense: In general, Ickes said common-sense safety practices can prevent a multitude of problems. Keep home and car doors locked at all times, and have keys ready when coming or going. Meet new friends in public places, and don't go alone, Ickes said.
At a club or a party, don't leave drinks -- even nonalcoholic ones -- unattended, and don't accept a can or bottle that has been opened, she said. Iced tea or soda can be tampered with as easily as alcohol, Ickes said. Refuse drinks offered by anyone other than a bartender or server, she said.
If an assault occurs, call a crisis hot line or police or go to a hospital immediately, Ickes advised. Quick action after a date rape or other assault gives law enforcement and medical personnel the best chance to catch the offender, she concluded.