Pine Bluff, Arkansas – On Saturday, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, together with the Tri-County Drug Task Force, took part in the 28th Drug Take-Back Day, a vital national event aimed at combating the risks associated with unused prescription drugs. This initiative, organized as part of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Drug Take-Back Initiative, offers citizens a safe and responsible way to dispose of medications that could otherwise become a danger in homes.
The local event was held at Super 1 Foods, located at 2800 S. Hazel in Pine Bluff. Residents from across Jefferson County came out in support, turning in an impressive 273.5 pounds of prescription pills. Officials believe this effort will help reduce risks tied to drug abuse, misuse, addiction, theft, and accidental overdose. By clearing out these medications, families have taken a step toward making their homes safer.
Addressing a Nationwide Problem Through Community Action
While Jefferson County’s contributions were significant, they are part of a much larger national initiative. During the previous 27th National Take Back Day, held on October 26, 2024, law enforcement agencies collected a massive 629,953 pounds (314 tons) of prescription drugs at more than 4,600 sites nationwide. Since its beginning 15 years ago, the National Drug Take-Back Initiative has led to the safe disposal of 19,200,440 pounds (9,600 tons) of drugs.
Jefferson County Sheriff Lafayette Woods, Jr. stressed the importance of this ongoing effort and highlighted the dangers posed by keeping prescription drugs at home. “The drug overdose epidemic is a clear and present public health and public safety issue. Our partnership with the DEA as part of the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day reflects the commitment of the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office to the health and safety of citizens, while encouraging the public remove unneeded, unwanted, and expired prescription medications from their homes in order to prevent medication misuse,” Sheriff Woods explained. He emphasized that “The Prescription Drug Take-Back Initiative addresses an on-going public safety and public health issue.”
Common Prescription Drugs Pose Serious Risks
Sheriff Woods also pointed out that certain medications are more susceptible to misuse. “Prescription drugs such as hydrocodone (Vicodin), Oxycodone (OxyCotin), and Fentanyl (Duragesic) just to name a few are among the most commonly found in home medicine cabinets,” he said. “These drugs are also among the highest that are susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. A great number of people in our community have been directed or indirectly affected by prescription drug abuse and misuse, and this event allows local residents to be part of the solution.”
By disposing of these drugs properly, residents are taking critical steps to protect their families and community from the devastating impacts of addiction and overdose.
Collection Bins Available for Ongoing Disposal
For those who missed this past weekend’s event, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office offers secure daily collection bins. These are located at:
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Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office (410 East 2nd Ave, Pine Bluff, AR)
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Doctor’s Orders Pharmacy (2302 West 28th Ave, Pine Bluff, AR)
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Doctor’s Orders Pharmacy (7240 Sheridan Road, White Hall, AR)
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Doctor’s Orders Pharmacy (500 South Lincoln Ave, Star City, AR, 71667)
Community Collaboration Leads to Success
The event was praised as a major success by Tri-County Drug Task Force Commander Captain Yohance Brunson, who noted the importance of partnerships. “The event was a huge success as a result of great teamwork and great partnerships. Collaboration with Super 1 Foods, the Arkansas Community Corrections, Exodus Life, Community Empowerment Council, the Arkansas Drug Director’s Office, and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) made the event successful,” Brunson stated.
For residents looking to find the nearest take-back site or collection bin, updated information is available at https://ardrugtakeback.org/take-back/collection-sites/.
