The Ocean City Police Department announced last week that it has joined the New Jersey Attorney General's "Project Medicine Drop" initiative, and has installed a Project Medicine Drop Box at police headquarters.
The box makes it easier and more convenient than ever for Ocean City residents to take an active role in the fight against the nationwide epidemic of opiate and heroin abuse, which often is fueled by the abuse of prescription painkillers.
"Project Medicine Drop is a natural addition to our commitment to help improve the public safety and quality of life in Ocean City. It will encourage our residents to be fully aware of the potential for abuse presented by otherwise beneficial medications," Ocean City Police Chief Chad Callahan said.
The department's new Project Medicine Drop Box is located at 835 Central Avenue. Residents may visit the Ocean City Police Department at any time, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year to dispose of their unused medications.
Project Medicine Drop is an important component of the New Jersey Attorney General's effort to stop the diversion and abuse of prescription drugs, including highly addictive opiate pain killers.
Through this initiative, the State Division of Consumer Affairs installs secure "prescription drug boxes" at police departments, sheriff's offices, and State Police barracks across New Jersey, allowing citizens to safely dispose of their unused, excess, or expired prescription medications.
Members of the public are invited to visit the Project Medicine Drop sites and drop off any unused prescription medications anonymously and with no questions asked. Most Project Medicine Drop sites make this service available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.
By giving New Jerseyans a safe and secure method to dispose of unneeded medications, Project Medicine Drop helps prevent the abuse of these drugs. This initiative also protects New Jersey's environment by keeping these drugs out of landfills and out of the water supply. More information about Project Medicine Drop, including the full list of Project Medicine Drop locations, can be found at
www.NJConsumerAffairs.gov/meddrop.
— News release from the Ocean City Police Department
