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Campus Safety Alert – September 30, 2026
UVM Police and Safety Teams received reports of allegations of incapacitating or “date rape” drug incidents occurring in off- campus locations in the Burlington area. Criminal investigations are ongoing and anyone with information is urged to contact UVM Police at 802-656-3473.

Giving someone a drug without their consent is a felony. Given the seriousness of these kinds of crimes we are offering a substantial cash reward for any information leading to the apprehension of suspect(s) administering drugs to persons without their knowledge or consent.

Sexual assault is never the survivors fault.

We urge all UVM community members to be vigilant if attending a party or frequenting bars and restaurants. Anyone can be targeted in an incident such as this, through no fault of their own. Here are a few important steps you can take to reduce risk:

  • Be cautious not to put your drink down or leave it unattended. If your drink is out of sight, even for a few minutes, don't finish it. Get a new one.
  • Be cautious not to accept an open drink from anyone. If you order a drink in a bar, make sure you watch the bartender open the bottle or mix your drink.
  • Avoid drinking from punch bowls or open containers being shared.
    Consider using a drink cover.
  • If you feel any of the symptoms – including but not limited to weakness, slurred speech, loss of motor coordination, visual impairment, or blackout/loss of consciousness - get help immediately. Ask for a screening test. Though traces of the drug may still appear up to 72 hours after ingestion (depending on dosage, and individual metabolism) the chances of getting an accurate test are best when the sample is obtained quickly.

The University has an incapacitating drug screening initiative to lower barriers to testing and details can be found here. (https://www.uvm.edu/dsc/incapacitating-drug-screening-initiative).

UVM Student Health is here to support students who may have had a suspected drug exposure. For the month of October, weekend on-call support is available for screening for incapacitating drugs, providing an option for care without having to go to the emergency department. To access these temporary services via the Center for Health and Well Being contact Police Services, and you will be connected with a Student Health Services medical provider directly.

Please contact UVM Police at 802-656-3473 to report any information about this, or similar incidents.

Strategies to Promote Community Safety 
If you are the victim of a crime, it is not your fault. With this in mind, there are steps that each of us can take to enhance our personal safety and safety in the UVM Campus Community.

  • If you observe suspicious activity, call UVM Police immediately (802-656-3473).
  • Install the UVM CatSafe App. This app lets you quickly, easily, and (if you choose) anonymously contact UVM Police, request help, and access several other features. Use the SafeWalk feature in the CatSafe App and virtually escort your friends.
  • The UVM Safety and Security Tips website has more general information about how to stay safe and reduce the risk of many kinds of crime in the community.
  • Be aware of support resources and reporting options related to sexual misconduct, including 24/7 confidential support from HOPE Works.
  • Call 9-1-1 if you witness a concerning incident or a crime unfolding.

UVM Police Services letterhead footer. A picture of the UVM Police Services badge with the text "12 Centennial Woods Way, Burlington Vermont 05405-3461. (802) 656-3473. www.uvm.edu/police An equal opportunity employer