NCJ Number
203022
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 51 Issue: 10 Dated: October 2003 Pages: 210-213
Date Published
October 2003
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article describes the features and effects of the "date rape" drugs of Rohypnol, Gamma Hydroxy Butyrate (GHB), and Ketamine.
Abstract
Rohypnol is the oldest drug used in date rape. It is up to 10 times more powerful than valium and halcion and produces a slowing of physical and mental responses, muscle reflexes, and amnesia in about 15 minutes. A pill looks like aspirin, and when dropped in a drink, usually an alcoholic beverage, it is colorless and odorless. The drug usually takes full effect on the victim within 30 minutes to 1 hour of ingestion. If a high dosage is given, the blackout time can extend to 24 hours. Victims may be aware of being undressed and assaulted but are incapable of reacting or resisting. After the effects of the drug wear off, victims may only have minimum, if any, recall about what happened to them. GHB is strong, with potentially deadly consequences. The most popular form of GHB is a clear liquid that is colorless and odorless and can easily be slipped into the drink of a victim. The drug can produce a reduced respiratory capacity, depending on the dosage. The drug produces a very thin line between an intoxicating effect and a coma. The drug is preferred by rapists because it diminishes memory, preventing the victim from remembering anything about the assault. Ketamine, a newer form of date rape drug, has a quick anesthetic effect. Like the other date rape drugs, Ketamine is used on the victim because of its effect on memory. The initial "high" is followed by amnesia. In any case that involves the use of a date rape drug, the investigator must deal with the victim's being unable to provide much information about the crime. Traditional methods of obtaining physical evidence of rape should be used, and emergency medical technicians and emergency room personnel should be informed that a date rape drug is suspected. Blood and urine tests may show the presence of a specific date rape drug. The quicker the tests are conducted, the more likely is the drug to be detected. Many agencies are reporting that date rape drug crimes are increasing in the homosexual community.