Spiking and Violence Targeted as Police Boost Night Patrols in Newquay

Police in Newquay are stepping up efforts to keep party-goers safe as the busy summer season approaches.

Neighbourhood officers are working closely with bars and clubs across the town to deter crime, safeguard visitors and support vulnerable people during evenings and late nights.

Targeting Spiking and Raising Awareness

One of the key focuses for the team has been tackling the issue of spiking. Inspector Steve Johnson, who oversees the neighbourhood teams in Newquay, confirmed that prevention and awareness are at the forefront of their activity.

“Newquay is a popular hub for people to visit and enjoy a night out. Whilst it is a safe town, we know how vital it is to play our part in making sure everyone who visits feels safe,” Steve said. “We also want people to know that if they are in need of help, our officers are there for them.”

Spiking involves drugs, whether prescription or illegal, being secretly added to a drink, injected, or placed into a vape without the person’s knowledge or consent. In April, local police received three reports of suspected spiking incidents. Although no harmful substances were found following investigations, police say the experiences were still disturbing for the victims.

“It is important to report such incidents to the police whatever the circumstances,” Steve added.

For more information on spiking or to report an incident, visit Devon and Cornwall Police’s website.

High Visibility Patrols and Partnerships

In addition to raising awareness, officers will continue to carry out regular high visibility patrols during the evenings and late nights. These patrols are intelligence-led, meaning they are targeted in areas where offences are most likely to occur.

“During the evenings, it’s usual for police to receive an increase in reports of offences relating to alcohol, drugs and violence,” Steve said. “It’s important for us to also recognise that during this time of evening, we can see individuals committing other offences like spiking. Although this remains unusual, it is a serious offence and one we are determined to tackle proactively.”

The partnerships with local venues are proving effective. “The close working relationships we’ve built with bars and clubs across the town has led to improved crime reporting, a better response to incidents and wrap-around support for vulnerable people,” Steve explained.

Support for Victims

Steve also stressed that victims of spiking are never to blame. “We are here to listen and keep you safe – your reports of spiking will be taken seriously and perpetrators will be pursued,” he said.

Anyone who thinks they may have been spiked should tell a trusted friend, venue staff or security immediately and report it to police as soon as possible to help capture evidence.

Tackling violence against women and girls during the evenings remains a priority for Devon and Cornwall Police. “Our officers will continue their proactive work to ensure Newquay remains a safe place for all,” Steve said.

For urgent help, call 999. To report concerns anonymously, contact Crimestoppers UK on 0800 555111.