For Immediate Release

Thursday, May 5, 2016

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: [email protected]

Rockport Police Department Take Back 104 Pounds of Drugs on National Drug Take Back Day

ROCKPORT – Chief John Horvath is pleased to announce that the Rockport Police Department took back a total of 104 pounds of expired or unused prescription drugs on National Drug Take Back Day last weekend.

The 104 pounds of drugs were collected in conjunction with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) at the Rockport Police Station on April 30. Residents were encouraged to turn in their unused, unwanted, and expired prescriptions to the police department. The event was free and anonymous.

“Events like Drug Take Back Day are a great way to provide more resources to our community,” Chief Horvath said. “It is encouraging to see residents take advantage of these planned events and keep themselves and others safe in the process.” 

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 its partners have taken in over 4.8 million pounds of drugs.

This initiative addresses a vital public health issue. Easily accessible unused prescriptions in homes are highly susceptible to abuse and misuse. 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 of unused medications by flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the garbage, as these methods have potential safety and health risks.

For more information about the disposal of prescription drugs, visit the DEA Office of Diversion Control website or contact Rockport Police at 978-546-1212.

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