Police patrols to raise awareness of drink spiking

Extra police patrols will take place during Freshers' Week in Northampton.

Northamptonshire Police said officers would raise awareness of drink and drug spiking and personal safety.

Police community support officers (PCSOs) will offer crime prevention advice and support alongside night-time patrols to safeguard "those enjoying the town's bars, pubs and clubs".

Sgt Huma Abbasi, who covers the University of Northampton, said it was a "welcoming town and a great place for students to live, study and enjoy socialising".

The week, which begins on 19 September, will see a dedicated University Policing Team (UPT) providing a "visible and reassuring presence on campus, supporting both new and returning students throughout the start of the academic year".

Abbasi said: "Officers from the UPT will be out and about on our Beat Bus, actively engaging with students and providing advice on personal safety, theft, burglary, cybercrime, and staying safe on nights out.

"We encourage students to come and speak to us and get to know their local officers.

"As well as sharing general safety advice, we'll also be raising awareness of drink and drug spiking and encouraging students to use well-lit, populated routes when travelling to and from the university."

Det Ch Insp Liz Basham said the patrols played "an important role in reducing offending and protecting those enjoying a night out".

"Our officers will challenge inappropriate behaviours, look out for individuals who are being sexually aggressive, or intimidating, or whose behaviour causes concern.

"They will be watching for people loitering or driving around the town without reason, men repeatedly approaching women in the street, invading their personal space, or making them feel uncomfortable."

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