(COLUMBUS, Ohio) -- Attorney General Mike DeWine and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) today thanked Ohio residents for properly disposing of more than 16 tons (32,369 pounds) of unwanted prescription medications during last Saturday's drug take-back day.
The DEA's National Prescription Drug Take-Back Initiative provides a safe, convenient, and responsible means of prescription drug disposal.
"Improper use of prescription medications can be deadly, and it's clear that Ohioans want to do everything they can to prevent abuse," said Attorney General DeWine. "We thank the DEA for the excellent work they do in orchestrating this event."
"The National Take Back Initiative is truly a cooperative effort between the public and law enforcement," said DEA Columbus Group Supervisor Mark McHugh. "We thank everyone who participated in this program, and, as a result, made our communities safer."
During last April's event, Ohioans disposed of approximately 13 tons (26,207 pounds) of prescription medications.
Five previous DEA Take-Back events resulted in more than 2 million pounds of prescription medications removed from circulation.
Those who are still in possession of unneeded prescription drugs can drop them off at one of several prescription drug drop box locations across the state. A list of prescription drug drop box locations is available here.
Upon taking office in 2011, Attorney General DeWine made the fight against prescription drug abuse a priority. In that time, those with the Attorney General's Office have been involved in the permanent license revocation of more than two dozen doctors and pharmacists who improperly prescribed prescription medication, the conviction of 13 doctors, pharmacists, traffickers and associates, and the seizure of more than $1.67 million worth of prescription pills.
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Media Contacts:
Dan Tierney: 614-466-3840
Jill Del Greco: 614-466-3840
Mark McHugh (DEA): 614-255-4192