Fanwood and Scotch Plains Police Departments today announced that they have joined the New Jersey Attorney General’s “Project Medicine Drop” initiative, and have installed Project Medicine Drop boxes at both police headquarters. Today’s announcement makes it easier and more convenient than ever for Fanwood and Scotch Plains 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 painkiller.
“Project Medicine Drop” is a natural addition to our commitment to help improve the public safety and quality of life in both communities. It will encourage our residents to be fully aware of the potential for abuse presented by otherwise beneficial medications,” Fanwood and Scotch Plains Chiefs Trigo and Conley. The department’s new Project Medicine Drop Boxes are located at Fanwood Police Department 75 North Martine Avenue, Scotch Plains Police Department 430 Park Avenue. Residents may visit either police department at any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, to dispose of their unused or excess 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 painkillers. Both Chiefs want to thank the Scotch Plains – Fanwood Municipal Alliance Committee and Prevention Links for their support and purchase of both drop boxes.
Through this initiative, the State Division of Consumer Affairs installs secure “prescription drug drop 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 NJConsumerAffairs.gov/meddrop.
