University of Bath Investigates Claims of Rugby Club Members Plotting to Spike Drinks
Allegations of a plot to spike female students' drinks at a pub have prompted an investigation by the University of Bath and a review into the culture of its sports clubs.
The University of Bath has launched an investigation into allegations that members of its rugby club conspired to intentionally spike the drinks of female students at a local pub. The probe was initiated following the circulation of screenshots from a social media post, purportedly from an anonymous female student, claiming to have overheard discussions about spiking female students during Freshers' Week.
The alleged incident is said to have occurred at The Royal Oak pub. The circulated message read: "Rugby guys in the Royal Oak were talking about spiking me, my mates and other girls. They are still on the prowl. Take care of each other."
Spiking, defined as adding alcohol or drugs to a drink without consent, or injecting substances, is illegal and can carry a prison sentence of up to 10 years. The university stated on Tuesday that it is aware of the "frightening" allegations and is taking them "extremely seriously."
An independent investigation has been ordered to establish the facts, and the university indicated that "robust" disciplinary measures would be enforced if wrongdoing is found. In addition to the specific allegations, a wider review into the culture of sports clubs at the university is also planned.
The University of Bath acknowledged the fear these allegations have caused among the student body, particularly for women concerned about their safety. In response, the university reported stepping up security in local nightclubs and venues over the weekend.
The University of Bath Rugby Club, in a joint statement with the university's Students' Union (SU), denied organizing, promoting, or attempting to arrange any such activity. The club stated that it "does not condone, encourage, or accept targeting, coercion, harassment, intimidation, or any behaviour that puts others at risk." The statement emphasized a commitment to a culture of respect, accountability, and inclusion, and ongoing work with the SU and university to ensure members uphold club and community values.
This controversy is not the first time the university's rugby club has faced scrutiny. In 2020, the men's rugby union team was banned from the annual University of Bath Varsity competition following multiple complaints. These complaints reportedly spanned excessive alcohol consumption, alleged sexual misconduct, and violent behavior. Between October 2018 and October 2019, the university reportedly took disciplinary action in over 30 cases against members of the rugby team for their conduct, including claims of sexual misconduct and excessive drinking.
One reported incident from that period involved a woman claiming three club members followed her into a female toilet and ignored her requests to be left alone. The "sustained pattern of behaviour" led to the team's ban from Varsity 2020, an event featuring various sports against a rival institution.
At the time of the 2020 ban, the SU's then-sport officer stated that while complaints were handled through SU and university procedures, additional action was deemed necessary to address potential underlying issues within the club. This led to the team's exclusion from Varsity and a requirement for all members to attend compulsory bystander training.
The University of Bath SU, the University of Bath Rugby Club, and Avon and Somerset Police have been approached for comment regarding the current allegations.