The Westfield Police Dept. is unveiling a new drop-off site for unused prescription drugs. The drop-off will provide a secure location for people to deposit prescription medication, and is part of a larger effort by the Indiana Attorney General’s office to combat the misuse of prescription drugs.
“Our goal is to keep Westfield residents safe from danger,” said Westfield Police Chief Joel Rush. “Sometimes dangerous situations don’t arise from robberies or shootings. Sometimes that danger can come from everyday sources, such as the misuse or abuse of prescription medication.”
According to the attorney general’s office, every 25 minutes someone dies from a prescription drug overdose, and 1 in 20 people have used prescription painkillers for non-medical reasons in the United States. Unused medication and the general misuse of medication beyond its original purpose invites crime. By setting a good example of proper use and disposal, we keep our children and communities safe.
“Fighting prescription drug abuse begins in our local communities and homes,” Attorney General Greg Zoeller said. “A majority of first-time prescription medication abusers obtain the drugs from friends or neighbors who may not realize the dangers of keeping old or unused prescriptions around the house. Encouraging safe and frequent disposal of prescription medications is key to curbing this epidemic, and I thank Westfield Police for empowering community members to do their part in preventing prescription drug abuse.”
Westfield’s drop-off site can be found in the lobby of the Westfield Public Safety Building, 17535 Dartown Rd. Lobby hours are 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. For a video detailing the drop-off protocol, visit www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10152967359758326.
