Man Charged After Suspected Drink Tampering at Halifax Pub
A 31-year-old man has been charged with administering a noxious thing after a woman fell ill from a drink he gave her at Durty Nelly’s Irish Pub in downtown Halifax. Staff administered Narcan before police arrived, and authorities are investigating the potential use of GHB.
A woman became ill last Friday at Durty Nelly’s Irish Pub in downtown Halifax after consuming a drink given to her by a man. 
Halifax Regional Police arrived at the scene around 1:30 a.m. and found staff administering Narcan to the woman, who was somewhat unresponsive. Officers arrested a 31-year-old man, who has been charged with administering a noxious thing with intent. He is scheduled to appear in court later.
A toxicology report is underway as part of the ongoing investigation. Police identified Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) as a drug often used for drink tampering, noting that its effects can begin within five to 30 minutes and last up to 12 hours.
The Restaurant Association of Nova Scotia (RANS) stated that drink tampering is a criminal offence. The association noted that establishments have protocols to combat it, including signage, test strips, and Narcan availability.
Students at Dalhousie University reported knowing three or four friends who have experienced drink tampering firsthand, underscoring concerns about safety at local bars and events.