By 1812Blockhouse
Richland County law enforcement and others are calling on residents to rally for a healthier, safer community by participating in the National Prescription Take-Back Event on Saturday, April 27.
This day is more than just an opportunity to declutter medicine cabinets—it’s a community-wide effort to prevent drug abuse and protect our environment from the hazards of improperly discarded medications. Spearheaded by a coalition of local law enforcement, public health organizations, and community advocates, the event underscores a unified commitment to tackling prescription drug abuse head-on.
Partners in Prevention
The collaborative effort is led by the METRICH Enforcement Unit and supported by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), along with a roster of local powerhouses including the Mansfield Division of Police, Richland County Sheriff’s Office, and several other local police departments. This alliance is strengthened further by the involvement of the Richland County Solid Waste Authority, Richland Public Health, Community Action for Capable Youth (CACY), and the Richland County Mental Health & Recovery Services Board, creating a formidable front against the misuse of prescription drugs.
Participation Essentials
To make a tangible impact, residents are asked to bring only pills for disposal, packed in plastic or Ziplock bags. This initiative focuses on household medications, steering clear of commercial contributions from pharmacies or businesses, to directly target the root of domestic drug misuse. The simplicity of the process is designed to encourage wide participation, making it as easy as possible for individuals to contribute to a safer community.
Drop-Off Destinations
Accessibility is key to the event’s success, prompting the establishment of multiple drop-off points throughout Richland County, all open from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM:
- Richland County Solid Waste Authority: 1125 National Parkway, Mansfield.
- Richland County Sheriff’s Office: 597 Park Ave East, Mansfield.
- Shelby Police Department: 31 Mack Ave, Shelby.
- Plymouth Police Department: 48 West Broadway St., Plymouth.
- Lexington Police Department: 44 West Main St., Lexington.
These locations ensure that no resident is left behind, offering convenient points for everyone to contribute to this crucial cause.
The Role of METRICH
At the core of this event lies the METRICH task force, a ten-county coalition dedicated to reducing the impact of illegal drugs and weapons through proactive enforcement and community engagement. METRICH’s commitment to improving quality of life is exemplified by events like the Prescription Take-Back, which not only remove drugs from potential misuse but also foster a sense of community responsibility and action.
How to Report Suspicious Activity
METRICH and its partners urge the community to stay vigilant and report any suspicious drug-related activities. By offering both a hotline (419-522-7463) and an online reporting platform (www.METRICH.com), they provide essential tools for community members to contribute to the safety and well-being of their neighborhoods.
