Assault involving intoxication

Intoxication (alcohol, drugs or any other psychoactive substance) of an individual without their knowledge, with or without the intention to humiliate, rob, or to inflict physical or sexual assault, it is a dangerous and criminal act.

The effects of different substances can be multiplied tenfold when mixed with one another. Excessive doses of any medication or drug can also lead to overdose or the person who is a victim may die if they do not receive prompt and appropriate care.

Witnesses can take action to prevent persons who are victims from suffering psychological and physical consequences, and can even save lives.

Perpetrators of intoxication or assault while intoxicated can expect to face lengthy prison sentences.

The term “date rape drug” is often used to describe cases where a person is intoxicated without their knowledge. This term often refers to GHB, but it can also be used in a broader sense to describe, “any substance used to intoxicate a person without their knowledge, with the intention of sexually assaulting them.”

Intoxication can affect a person's judgment, and therefore their ability to give free and informed consent to certain activities, particularly those of a sexual nature. An individual who performs acts of a sexual nature on another person without having fully obtained their valid consent is committing sexual assault.

Sexual assaults do not always leave visible evidence, and some substances can cause memory loss or loss of consciousness. As a result, persons who are victims of intoxication may not know whether or not they have been sexually assaulted, when they were either unconscious or heavily intoxicated. When in doubt, visit the Help for persons who are victims page.

The Gouvernement du Québec and its partners are taking action to prevent and fight against cases that involve intoxication of a person without their knowledge.

Initiatives are aimed at raising awareness and equipping key players, as well as protecting and supporting persons who are victims.

Government measures are in line with the initiatives of organizations such as Order an Angelot  by Social Collective. This accreditation protocol has been designed to detect and prevent situations of sexual violence and intoxication of a person without their knowledge at bars and events. Staff at participating establishments are trained to help people who are in distress.

If you fear for your safety or that of another person, you can notify a staff member at accredited establishments by "ordering an Angelot", a fictitious cocktail.