NCJ Number
194978
Journal
Campus Law Enforcement Journal Volume: 32 Issue: 2 Dated: March/April 2002 Pages: 34-36
Date Published
2002
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the use of “club drugs” or “designer drugs” by young adults through the analysis and review of a criminal incident that occurred in 2000 at the University of Central Florida (UCF).
Abstract
Generations of young adults have been experimenting with “club drugs” also known as “designer drugs” from the late 1990's. These included drugs such as Ecstasy, PMA, Ketamine, and Gamma Hydroxy Butyrate (GHB). It is also known that minor experimentation of such drugs can lead to serious health consequences, including death. This article shares the learning experience of the University of Central Florida (UCF) through an incident that occurred in October 2000 at the UCF and landed three students in the hospital for an overdose of GHB. The incident and criminal investigation that took place played a significant role in how UCF continues to educate, handle, and prevent incidents involving the use of designer drugs such as GHB. The UCF offers preventive measures to its students through a thorough orientation, informative materials, seminars, and workshops throughout the school year. In addition, swift penalties are set down through university rules and regulations, assistance from State and local law enforcement, and prosecution from State or district attorneys. Universities need to take a positive and proactive approach when responding to a student dying from a drug overdose.