EPD Investigates Nonconsensual Druggings Reported To Northwestern University

EVANSTON, IL — Multiple people notified Northwestern University officials that they were recently drugged without their consent while attending off-campus gatherings in Evanston, according to a crime notice issued by the school Friday.

The notice did not specify when or where the druggings were said to have occurred, but at least one of the reports is "associated with a gathering believed to be organized by Northwestern students."

There were three recent reports, according to university spokesperson Jon Yates.

“We are still trying to determine the details about some of the reports, including, in some cases, the exact location of the alleged drugging,” Yates told Patch in an email. He declined to specify whether only women were targeted in the reported drugging incidents.

Evanston police Sgt. Ken Carter said Evanston police would be the lead investigative agency on the case. He said the allegations are pending further investigation, and no further details would be available before Monday.

The recent reports of nonconsensual drugging follow last month's suspension of fraternity-sponsored social events, both on and off campus, in response to multiple reports of druggings at the Sigma Alpha Epsilon and Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity houses.

Shortly before the suspension was due to expire earlier this month, the Northwestern Interfraternity Council announced that suspension would continue through at least Jan. 3.

According to the crime alert, symptoms of drugging usually kick in within 15 to 30 minutes of ingesting a substance.

"If you suspect that you or a friend has symptoms that may indicate nonconsensual drugging, call 911 or go to the emergency room, where you can get medical attention and/or request a screening for nonconsensual drugging," it said. "Signs of drugging can be similar to overconsumption."

Related:

• Northwestern Frat Party Drugging Reports Prompt Abolition Demands
• Victims Drugged Without Consent At Northwestern Frat Houses: Cops
• Fraternity Returns To Northwestern Campus Following Suspension