The Queen Creek Police Department looks forward to participating in the 23rd National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, Oct. 29. QCPD is partnering with the Walgreens located at 21212 E. Ocotillo Road. Officers will be present to collect all unwanted and unused prescription drugs from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. outside the store.

The event aims to prevent opioid addiction and drug poisoning deaths. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), a majority of people who misused prescription medication obtained the medicine from a family member or friend.

“I encourage everyone across Queen Creek to check their medicine cabinets and dispose of the unneeded medications you have in there. This helps keep your loved ones safe and healthy which is the overall goal of this national Take Back campaign,” said Queen Creek Police Chief Randy Brice.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that in the United States, approximately 107,622 people died as the result of drug poisoning last year. This means that someone in the United States is dying of drug poisoning every five minutes.

QCPD will be accepting all tablets, capsules, patches, and other forms of prescription drugs at the Take Back location. They will NOT be accepting syringes, sharps, or glass bottles.

For more information on National Prescription Take Back Day go to https://www.dea.gov/