A shocked mother of two has told police how she survived an apparent drug rape bid.
She was rushed to Broomfield Hospital, Chelmsford, after drinking a glass of wine spiked with what doctors believe was the potent tranquiliser rohypnol.
The woman felt ill while celebrating with work friends in the Battesford Court, Newland Street, Witham.
Doctors who examined her and heard what had happened diagnosed that she had been the victim of an attempted drug rape and alerted police.
"I was horrified when the doctors said I had been drugged," she said.
Liquid rhohypnol causes dizziness and loss of co-ordination, which is often thought to be drunkenness at the time.
Mixed with alcohol, it induces amnesia, so victims forget being raped or become so confused that their evidence is worthless in anyone is prosecuted.
The man leading the investigation is Dc Kevin Collett, based at Witham police station.
He has seized the pub's CCTV hard disc and the glasses used during the celebration last Thursday evening.Anyone with information can call him on 01376 501212.
Police spokeswoman Kim Perks said: "Our message is 'Never leave a drink unattended.' It is extremely easy to slip something in if no one is looking."
Published Thursday June 17, 2004
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