Howell Police to Take Part in Operation Take Back

In an effort to help get expired and no longer used prescription medication off the streets the is taking part in a statewide effort known as "Operation Take Back New Jersey." 

Run in conjunction with the Drug Enforcement Administration, Detective Sgt. Eileen Dodd said the program serves an important purpose. "The goal of 'Operation Take Back New Jersey,' is to allow the citizens of New Jersey to deliver all of their unwanted medications to law enforcement officials who can dispose of these controlled substances in a safe and non-hazardous manner," she said. 

Dodd said this program is aimed at, "preventing these pills from falling into the hands of juveniles or into the illicit market of our communities."

Operation Take Back is aimed at tackling what Dodd called, "one of our greatest problems," and added, "It is widely recognized that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from home medicine cabinets."

Not only do the prescription contribute to the nationwide drug problem, Dodd said they also can be an environmental hazard. "Most individuals are not aware of safe or proper methods to properly dispose of their unused medicine, often flushing them down the toilet or throwing them away," she said adding, "both of which have potential safety and health hazards."

Residents are encouraged to bring their unneeded or expired prescriptions to the old PAL building at 450 Adelphia Rd. The building is located between Ketchum Rd. and Fairfield Rd.