Alaska State Legislature

News From The House Majority

Ken Freeman, Press Secretary
State Capitol
Juneau, AK 99801
phone: (907) 465-3804
web site: http://www.akrepublicans.org
Actuality line: 1-800-478-6540

Measure to Make Possession of Date Rape Drug a Felony Sent to Governor

For Immediate Release: April 18, 1997 Contact: Rep. Al Vezey (907) 465-3719

JUNEAU - Legislation sponsored by Representative Al Vezey (R-Fairbanks) to classify Flunitrazepam, the "date rape" drug, as a controlled substance was transmitted to the Governor Thursday. HB 69 would classify the drug as a Schedule IV(A) controlled substance and makes possession of the drug a felony.

Rep. Vezey said that Alaska already has laws against sexual assault and those involving victims who unknowingly ingest drugs are more serious crimes, carrying heavier penalties.

Flunitrazepam, trade name Rohypnol, is known by street names that include Roofies, Roaches, Roches, Rocha, Rophies, Ruffles, Ropes and Ribs.

"By making Rohypnol a controlled substance, we are attempting to intercept the perpetrators before they have a chance to commit a heinous crime," said Vezey.

"We are trying to get out ahead of criminals who would utilize this drug in Alaska."

272 Rohypnol tablets were recently confiscated along with a quantity of heroin during an arrest made in Anchorage in February. The Alaska State Crime Laboratory has confirmed this is the first report of the presence of flunitrazepam in Alaska.

"The most heinous illegal use of this drug is to slip it into the drink of a female as a prelude to rape. The drug induces deep sleep and causes amnesia. Victims of drug induced rape can not identify their victims and convictions are difficult and rare. HB 69 sends a clear message that we will not tolerate those who would perpetrate sexual abuse in our society," said Vezey.

"I hope the Governor signs the bill into law to make sure that the illegal use of drugs like Rohypnol are classified as controlled substances and the offenders are punished as felons," said Vezey.

HB 69 is part of a comprehensive package of legislation to provide Safe Neighborhoods in Alaska in line with the Majority's "Commitment to Alaska".

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