University of Vermont police issued a campus safety alert on Wednesday warning that several incidents of alleged drink‑spiking have been reported in the Burlington area. The alert, which was shared with local media, says the incidents appear to involve the administration of incapacitating drugs—often referred to as “date‑rap” drugs—without a person’s knowledge or consent.

Police response and reward

According to the alert, giving someone a drug without their consent is a felony. To encourage tips, the police department is offering a substantial cash reward for any information that leads to the apprehension of suspect(s) responsible for administering these drugs.

Details from university officials

Michael Schirling, the University of Vermont’s chief safety and compliance officer, told NBC affiliate WPTZ that the incidents seem to involve multiple distinct events, multiple people, and more than one location. “It appears to be multiple distinct events, multiple people and more than one location,” Schirling said.

Senior student Mia Clancy described how she first became aware of the problem when she received two immediate texts from her parents after a night out. “I got two immediate texts from my parents, so that’s when I kind of realized, ‘Oh, this might be a little more serious than I’m thinking,’” she said.

Clancy added that she has heard from other women who did not feel right after visiting local bars in the past two weeks. “Unfortunately, it’s reality, just kind of as a woman in a busy city like Burlington, especially in a college town where everyone’s going out and active in Greek life as well. It’s a sad truth,” she said.

Safety tips for students and community members

The police department outlined several steps anyone can take to reduce the risk of becoming a victim:

• Never leave drinks unattended; watch your beverage being prepared and keep it within sight.
• Never accept drinks from strangers or from someone you do not know well.
• If you feel unusually dizzy, nauseous, or otherwise impaired, seek help immediately and consider leaving the venue.
• Stay with trusted friends and establish a check‑in system throughout the night.
• Report any suspicious behavior or incidents to the police at 802‑656‑3473.

Ongoing investigation

Police confirmed that criminal investigations are ongoing and that they are actively seeking information from anyone who may have witnessed or experienced these incidents. The department emphasized that the safety of students, faculty, and the broader Burlington community remains a top priority.

Anyone with information about the alleged drink‑spiking incidents is encouraged to contact the University of Vermont police at the phone number provided above.

Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.