Ohio State Police warn of possible off-campus drugging at parties and bars

COLUMBUS, Ohio — A warning by the Ohio State University Department of Public Safety has off-campus bars and students on high alert this weekend.

Police are warning students of possible occurrences of criminal drugging at off-campus parties and bars. Ohio State did not release very many details, but students like Anastasia Kaffenes are on high alert.

"The notice said to be really careful when you're heading out for the weekend," said Kaffenes.

The notice is also troubling for Abe Amira with 'Out R Inn,' an off-campus bar. "It's frustrating," he said.

Amira said bartenders and staff at 'Out R Inn,' do what they can to make sure students are safe. He says they're trained to be on the lookout for suspicious activity.

"If we see a drink has been left behind, we immediately throw it away. If they complain, we will get them a new drink," Amira said.

Police are warning students to take precautions. The Neighborhood Notice sent out warns students to party responsibly, do not ingest unsealed beverages, do not set the drink down or leave them unattended and to report suspicious activity to police.

Police say drugging another is a crime and is a serious offense. Anyone with information related to criminal acts should report them immediately by calling University Police at 614-292-2121 or Columbus Police at 614-645-4545.

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