Related Federal Cases
- Feds Offer Lifeline to Banks Hit by California Storms · California
- McKenzie Earley Faces Federal Charges in California · California
- James Hector Alcala: Fugitive Alien Smuggler Snared at California Port of Entry · Utah
- California Man Accused of Threatening Four in Stark County · Ohio
- California Man Accused of Child Exploitation in Ohio Sex Trip · Ohio
Unused Prescription Pills Flood Northern California Homes
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration is sounding the alarm on the growing epidemic of addiction, overdose, and death due to abuse of prescription drugs, particularly opioid painkillers. The DEA invites the public to bring their potentially dangerous, unwanted medicines to one of over 5,000 collection sites around the country that are manned by more than 3,800 of DEA’s tribal and local law enforcement partners.
According to the DEA, 6.5 million Americans abuse prescription drugs, more than abuse cocaine, heroin, and hallucinogens combined. Young people are particularly at risk, with most people who abuse prescription drugs saying that they get them from family members or friends.
“The abuse of prescription drugs is America’s fastest-growing drug problem, and too many people are dying or being seriously injured for the misuse of such drugs,” U.S. Attorney Wagner stated. “Unused prescription drugs that languish in the home are susceptible to diversion for misuse and abuse,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge John J. Martin.
The removal from homes of unwanted prescription pills that can be abused, stolen or resold is an easy way to help fight the epidemic of substance abuse and addiction. In the previous 10 take-back events, approximately 302,427 pounds or 151 tons of unused medication were collected from Northern California and Central Valley residents.
The public can find a nearby collection site by visiting www.dea.gov, clicking on the “Got Drugs?” icon, and entering their zip code into the search window, or they can call 800-882-9539. Only pills and other solids, like patches, will be accepted—the public should not bring liquids, needles or other sharps to take back sites.
This service is free of charge, with no questions asked. The DEA has collected and destroyed 5.5 million pounds—2,762 tons—of unused prescription drugs in the past five years, and it’s continuing its efforts to take back unused, unwanted and expired prescription medications. By taking advantage of this free and anonymous service, you can make your home and our community safer.
Drug overdoses are now the leading cause of injury-related death in the United States, eclipsing deaths from motor vehicle crashes or firearms. The DEA urges everyone to take this opportunity to dispose of unwanted prescription drugs and help fight the epidemic of substance abuse and addiction.
Key Facts
- State: California
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime|Sex Crimes|Cybercrime|Public Corruption|Weapons|Human Trafficking|White Collar Crime|Organized Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
ðŸâ€Â’ Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
US NewsUS NewsUS NewsUS News