For Immediate Release

Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2015

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Gloucester Police to Host National Drug Take Back Day Event

GLOUCESTER — Mayor Sefatia Romeo Theken, the city’s Board of Health and Chief Leonard Campanello announce that the Gloucester Police Department, in collaboration with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), will participate in National Drug Take Back Day this weekend.

Residents are encouraged to visit the Rose Baker Senior Center, 6 Manuel F. Lewis St., on Saturday, Sept. 26 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to dispose of their unused, unwanted or expired prescription drugs. The event is free and anonymous. The DEA will accept pills and patches, but cannot take liquids, needles or sharps.

The initiative addresses the vital public health issue of removing easily accessible and unused prescriptions from people’s houses. Studies have shown that the majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including the home medicine cabinet. Residents are advised to avoid disposing unused medications by flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the garbage, as these methods have potential safety and health risks.

“We have seen time and time again what can happen to those who abuse prescription drugs,” Chief Campanello said. “This is why it is so important for residents to take the time to properly dispose of their unused or unwanted medications. We encourage the community to participate in National Drug Take Back Day to prevent misuse, and in turn, save lives.”

Last September, Americans turned in 309 tons (over 617,000 pounds) of prescription drugs at nearly 5,500 sites operated by the DEA and more than 4,000 of its state and municipal law enforcement partners. Since the first Take Back event, the DEA and police agencies have taken in over 4.8 million pounds of drugs.

“Please take a moment to look in your cabinets and pull out your expired or unused medication so it can be disposed of properly,” Mayor Romeo Theken said. “Gloucester is proud to participate in this national event to work toward preventing prescription drug abuse.”

For more information about the disposal of prescription drugs or about the Sept. 26 Drug Take Back Day, visit the DEA Office of  Diversion Control site or contact the Gloucester Police Department at 978-283-1212.

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