Police investigate 2 cases where bar patrons had drinks laced with unknown drug

MELBOURNE, Fla. (WOFL FOX 35) - A bar owner in Melbourne is warning customers to watch their drinks, saying someone has been spiking beverages around town.

Melbourne Police are investigating two incidents that have happened in Downtown Melbourne in just the last several months, but one bar owner is now speaking out, letting people know that Melbourne is safe as long as you're smart when you're here.

Both instances happened when the victims were out with a group of friends and suddenly felt sick, going home early.

“This is the first time I'm hearing about it so I’m actually surprised because it seems like a pretty safe town,” said Shelbra Bell, of Melbourne.

A community now shaken.

“I was shocked because I have a lot of friends that come here and I've never heard of anything bad,” said Ashley Vassar, of Rockledge.

The owner of the Hurricane Creek Saloon is now speaking out, posting to Facebook that he takes these reports of “roofied” victims seriously and relies on cameras and, on some nights, up to 12 security guards to keep his customers safe.

“At the end of the day, you're out with your friends. You're having a great time, and the last thing you think is one yahoo that could mess it up,” said bar owner Randy Bennett.

Neither incident happened at his bar, but he says this could really happen anywhere, which is why it’s so important to be aware of your surroundings when you’re out.

“We just are protective and concerned of our patrons. We wanted to be responsible to the community as well by saying hey, when you go out, it's just a reminder to party smart.”

Melbourne Police are alerting people that when they're out to know what you're drinking, keep your drink with you at all times, and if you don't feel well after a drink, make sure you report it.