Actress Dame Helen Brings Date Rape Into The Public Eye

In Britain's GQ magazine, Dame Helen, a 63-year-old, spoke of date rape, using cocaine, and her Academy Award winning portrayal of The Queen. She revealed that she was date-raped "a couple of times" when she was young but complained that "you couldn't do that in those days." Helen said it was rape even if the woman waited until the last second to say "no." However, she added, "I don't think she can have that man into court under those circumstances. I guess it is one of the subtle parts of the men/women relationship that has to be negotiated and worked out between them." Legal Pub disagrees! Prosecution can and should be pursued.

What is date rape? "Date rape" refers to the non-consensual sexual activity between people who are acquainted either platonic or sexually. This type of unwelcome assault takes place during a social interaction. It may be planned or spontaneous. The majority of rape victims (68 percent) knew their rapist either as a boyfriend, friend or casual acquaintance. (Bureau of Justice Special Report: Intimate Partner Violence, May 2000) In some cases, drugs such as flunitrazepam, GHB, midazolam, temamepam, or ketamine are used to neutralize resistance or even consciousness. However, good old alcohol is the most frequent chemical used in date rape. Memory loss is the number one reason for lack of prosecution of the crime. This makes date rape more difficult to prove then it would otherwise be.

What should you do if you suspect "date rape?" First, there are signs that sexual activity has taken place even if you have no memory of it. (It is important to note that you can also have no memory of consensual sex, so be careful prior to making accusations.) Signs of a sexual assault may include; soreness or bruising in the genital area, soreness or bruising in the anal area, bruising on the inner and/or outer thighs, bruising on the wrists and forearms, defensive bruising or scratching, used condoms, and traces of semen or vaginal fluids on clothes or furniture. Signs that a date rape drug may have been given include: feeling "hung-over" despite having ingested little or no alcohol, a sense of having had hallucinations or very "real" dreams, fleeting memories of feeling or acting intoxicated despite having taken no drugs or alcohol and no clear memory of events during an 8 to 24 hour period. But there is no way to be sure without medical testing. If you suspect date rape with a drug, go to a hospital quickly and be properly tested. Drugs can be found in your system if you act quickly. Also request a preliminary rape exam.

How can one protect against "date rape drugs?"

1. Don't accept open drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) from people you do not know.

2. In bars or clubs always get your drink directly from the bartender.

3. Only accept drinks in close containers: bottles, cans or tetra packs.

4. Never leave your drink unattended or turn your back on your table.

5. Never drink from open beverage sources like punch bowls, pitchers or tubs.

6. If there is talk of date rape drugs or if friends seem "too intoxicated," leave the party or club immediately and don't go back!

7. There is a brand new defense against date rape drugs called "Drink Safe Technology." It involves litmus paper strips that change color when they come in contact with a date rape drug. The strips fit in your purse or pocket and can be used quickly and discretely. Visit http://www.drinksafetech.com/.