Anthony Barnes, Prescription Drug Abuse, West Virginia 2023

Crime Wave: Prescription Drugs Flood West Virginia Streets

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The United States Attorney’s Office and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration announced that over 5,800 pounds of unwanted, unused, and expired prescription drugs were collected throughout West Virginia as part of the most recent National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day.

As a result of the April 30th Take-Back event, participating law enforcement agencies in West Virginia took in a total of 5,876 pounds from citizens and households around the state. The massive haul highlights the growing problem of prescription drug abuse in West Virginia.

“Prescription drug abuse is an issue that touches all West Virginians,” said Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto. “DEA’s Prescription Drug Take-Back Day events continue to be successful here because all of us want to take an active role in preventing drug abuse. Removing unused prescription medication from the home and properly disposing of it helps keep our communities safer.”

The Prescription Drug Take-Back Day events have been a crucial tool in the fight against prescription drug abuse, and West Virginia has seen significant success with these events. With over 100 collection sites throughout the state, West Virginians had ample opportunity to dispose of their unused, unwanted, and expired prescription medication.

“This event works because of the strong partnerships between DEA and federal, state, and local law enforcement,” said DEA Resident Agent in Charge Suzan Williamson. “National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day allows us to work together to cut off a significant source of the drug supply. We will continue fighting drug abuse by providing a safe place for West Virginians to get rid of their unused prescription medication.”

The Prescription Drug Take-Back Day is a bi-annual event that provides a safe and convenient way for citizens to dispose of their unused prescription medication. The event is a crucial step in preventing prescription drug abuse and keeping communities safe.

As the fight against prescription drug abuse continues, the DEA and law enforcement agencies in West Virginia will remain vigilant in their efforts to prevent and combat prescription drug abuse. The success of the Prescription Drug Take-Back Day events is a testament to the strong partnerships between law enforcement agencies and the commitment to keeping West Virginia communities safe.

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