CONCORD, N.H. – In a direct appeal to combat the growing opioid epidemic, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley is urging citizens of New Hampshire to take part in the Drug Enforcement Administration’s National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day on Saturday, April 29, 2017.
“Our state is facing a relentless battle against the opioid crisis, and we must recognize that many individuals fall into addiction through the misuse of prescription drugs. This often begins with recreational use of unused prescriptions, which tragically can spiral into full-blown addiction and too frequently, tragic deaths. I implore every citizen to make a difference by responsibly disposing of unneeded medications this Saturday. Your action will enhance the safety of your home and community,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Farley.
DEA Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Ferguson echoed the call for safety, “Many Americans are unaware that prescription medicines left unchecked in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. The rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as is the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses from illegal use of these drugs. Please take a moment to clear out your medicine cabinet and secure your home from drug theft and abuse.”
With previous Take-Back Days yielding impressive results, over 731,269 pounds—nearly 366 tons—of medication were returned in October 2016, totaling more than 3,500 tons collected since the program’s inception. Community efforts have played a crucial role in this national initiative.
The National Survey on Drug Use and Health reveals that millions who have abused prescription painkillers sourced these drugs from friends and family, often from home medicine cabinets. The survey also indicates that four out of five new heroin users started with painkillers. In 2014, almost 30,000 people—78 a day—died from overdosing on these painkillers or heroin, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Collection sites will be strategically placed across the nation for convenient access. To find a site near you, visit the DEA Office of Diversion Control website at https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_disposal/takeback, where you can search by zip code.
RELATED: James Battles Prez Over Birthright Citizenship
RELATED: James Leads Push for Senate KOSA Bill Over House Version
Related Federal Cases
- DEA Targets Opioid Crisis in New England Take Back Day · New Hampshire
- New Hampshire’s First Female US Attorney Takes Office · New Hampshire
- DEA Seizes 40 Tons of Unused Pills in Vermont Take Back Blitz · New Hampshire
- DEA Seizes 44 Tons of Drugs in New England Take Back Blitz · New Hampshire
- Chaplain Buenviaje Pleads Guilty to Smuggling Drugs into FCI-Berlin · New Hampshire
Key Facts
- State: New Hampshire
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Public Corruption
- Source: Official Source ↗
🔒 Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
Browse More
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
Public CorruptionPublic CorruptionPublic CorruptionPublic Corruption