For Immediate Release

Wednesday, May 1, 2019

Media Contact: Benjamin Paulin
Phone: 781-428-3299
Email: ben@jgpr.net

Somerset Police Collect 118 Pounds of Medication During Drug Take Back Day

SOMERSET — Chief George McNeil is pleased to announce that the Somerset Police Department turned in 118 pounds of unused medication following National Drug Take Back Day.

In collaboration with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Somerset Police coordinated a “take back” event on Saturday, April 27 at the Somerset Police Department.

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.

Drug Take Back events also serve as an opportunity for law enforcement agencies to educate the public about the potential for abuse of medications. Studies suggest that the majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, often from the home medicine cabinet.

“It was great to see so many people come out and drop off their unwanted medication this weekend,” Chief McNeil said. “The drug take back event helps residents get rid of unwanted pills and medications that are cluttering up their medicine cabinets and also helps to ensure that these medications aren’t falling into the wrong hands, limiting the chances of medications being misused.”

Residents who missed National Drug Take Back Day can still turn in their unused medications at one of the Somerset Police Department’s drug take back events throughout the year. The next event will be Saturday, June 15 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Residents should note that liquids, needles or sharps are not accepted.

###