Crime & Safety
Got Drugs? Police Collecting Unused Prescription Medications for National Take Back Day
Expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs can be dropped off at the Pleasanton Police Department on April 26 between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
On Saturday April 26, the Pleasanton Police Department will partner with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) for the eighth annual Drug Take Back Program. The program allows the public the opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs.
The event takes place from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the lobby of the Pleasanton Police Department at 4833 Bernal Avenue.
The dropoff is free and anonymous, with no questions asked.
During the last seven Take Back Events, nearly one million pounds of prescription drugs were turned in at more than 5300 sites operated by the DEA’s state and local law enforcement partners.
This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse.
Prescription drug abuse rates in the United States are alarmingly high. According to the 2010 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, more Americans currently abuse prescription drugs than those using cocaine, hallucinogens, and heroin combined.
Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet.
Representatives from Mothers with a Purpose will be at the event to assist and share relevant information with the public.
—Information submitted by Pleasanton Police Department
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