Displaying of Drug-Related Crimes Increased

In Austria, 150 cases were registered, 27 more than in 2023, according to Heinz Holub-Friedreich, spokesperson for the Federal Criminal Office. However, the figures only show the report statistics, not the number of convictions, Holub-Friedreich noted. He also emphasized to the APA that the method of commission includes not only date rape drugs but also other narcotics such as medications or addictive substances, although not alcohol.

Over 100 Reports of Suspected Rape Using Narcotics

The administration of date rape drugs and other narcotics can constitute various offenses. In the case of the 150 reports from the previous year, these were robbery, aggravated robbery, rape, and sexual coercion, said Holub-Friedreich. With 92 reports, the majority relates to Vienna, as shown by the report statistics. Of the 150 reports in Austria, 110 concerned the suspicion of rape using narcotics. 109 victims were female, and the vast majority of the reports by women (101) were related to the suspicion of rape. In 2024, 40 cases of suspected robbery and aggravated robbery were reported, the majority filed by men.

Date Rape Drugs Not Recorded in Convictions for Crimes with Narcotics

Whether there are actually more cases is unclear. This is because, in convictions, the "factual element" of administering narcotics is not statistically recorded, Sina Bründler, spokesperson for the Ministry of Justice, told the APA. "The Federal Ministry of Justice therefore does not keep statistics on convictions due to the administration of narcotics, such as date rape drugs." Once the administration of such substances has an impact on the victim, it can be prosecuted as bodily harm, it was stated.

The increased reports in this area are also attributed by BKA spokesperson Holub-Friedreich to a heightened awareness in the population. Through preventive measures such as information campaigns and media reports, people have become more sensitized. He emphasized that in case of suspicion, one should immediately consult a doctor.

(APA/red)

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