Q.What are club drugs?
A. They are a group of drugs mixed by amateur chemists that are used at night clubs and parties to enhance the party experience. See the Club Drugs Overview section for more information.

Q. Are these drugs really a concern in our area?
A. The use of club drugs has doubled on the national average. Our area is below the national average in terms of usage but Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, Knollwood and other communities in Lake County are experiencing increases each year.

Q. What are the legal consequences of being caught with or distributing club drugs?
A. Recent state and local legislation has resulted in far stiffer penalties for possession and sale of club drugs. Consequences vary by drug, quantity and situation.

1. Ecstasy: Possession of 15 pills or more would be considered "intent to deliver" and classified as a Class X Felony, with a penalty of 6 to 30 years in prison. Possession of up to 14 pills would be a Class IV Felony with 1 to 4 years in jail.
2. Liquid X (GHB) and Ketamine: More than 200 grams and it's determined to be possession as "intent to deliver", a Class X Felony with 6-30 years in prison if found guilty.
3. LSD: Possession of 15 to 300 grams is a Class X Felony as well.
4. Driving under the influence of a "club drug" with possession of the drug is a Class X Felony DUI and drivers license would be suspended for six months (first offense).

Possession of club drugs is taken very seriously and if a teenager is found guilty they would most probably face prison time.

Q. What advice can I give my teens about protecting themselves from club drugs (like those used as a "date rape" drug)?
A. Share these guidelines with your teens:

1. Have a buddy system and go to unfamiliar places or large parties with a trusted friend. Know how to watch out for one another.
2. Never let anyone bring you a drink, especially at parties. Get your own and keep it with you at all times. Be sure the glass is empty before putting liquid in it. Ideally, open a beverage yourself.
3. Make an exit plan in advance with a friend. Discuss a code, emergency phone numbers or tactics that raise attention and keep you safe while you get a friend out of a situation.
4. Don't put yourself at greater risk by getting drunk or high. If you are intoxicated, you will not be able to notice odd behaviors and situations around you, so keep your wits about you.

Q. How real is the possibility of an undercover cop being present at night clubs or raves where club drugs are present?
A. Very real. Undercover police are trained to blend in and they know how people act when they are high.