STONEHAM — Chief James T. McIntyre is pleased to announce that the Stoneham Police Department collected 140 pounds of unwanted medication during National Drug Take Back Day.
In collaboration with the federal Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Stoneham Police coordinated a “take back” event on April 24 at the Stoneham Police Station on Central Street.
The collection event was part of a semi-annual initiative, where thousands of law enforcement agencies across the country work to provide community members with an easy, accessible way to dispose of expired or unwanted prescription drugs.
“This was a great turnout and we’re happy to have been able to offer a local, convenient, no-questions-asked opportunity for residents to drop off their unwanted prescription medications,” Chief McIntyre said. “Removing these drugs from the household is an important step in reducing the amount of these medications in our community, and in preventing substance use.”
According to the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, in 2019 alone an estimated 9.7 million people misused prescription pain relievers, 4.9 million people misused prescription stimulants and 5.9 million people misused prescription tranquilizers or sedatives.
The Stoneham Police Department also has a permanent take-back box in the police station lobby for those who wish to dispose of prescriptions, but were unable to attend Take Back Day.
Residents should note that no liquids, needles, sharps or inhalers can be dropped off at the kiosk.
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