On Saturday, October 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office (SCSO) will participate in the Drug Enforcement Administration's (DEA) Prescription Drug Take Back Campaign. The event will be held at the SCSO headquarters, located at 6010 Cattleridge Blvd., Sarasota.
These drug turn-in events address critical public safety, health, and environmental issues. Studies show that most abused prescription drugs are sourced from family and friends, often from home medicine cabinets.
SCSO offers a permanent drop box in the lobby of its headquarters, accessible daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Several other local law enforcement agencies also have permanent drop boxes and will join in the event.
Medication turn-ins are always anonymous. Solid dosage medications, including prescription and over-the-counter tablets and capsules, will be accepted. Liquids and needles are not eligible for drop-off. While drop boxes are available to the public year-round, the national turn-in initiative aims to raise awareness about proper disposal methods.
To locate permanent drop boxes in your area, call 1-800-882-9539 or visit the DEA website.