This Saturday, law enforcement and public health agencies throughout the Mid-Ohio Valley will join the nationwide effort for National Prescription Drug Take Back Day—a critical initiative designed to help people safely dispose of unwanted, unused, or expired medications.
The Marietta Police Department will hold a local drop-off event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at their headquarters at 301 Putnam Street. Officers will be outside the building, ready to accept medications with no questions asked.
“Take Back Day has become a meaningful public service for our community,” said Marietta Police Chief Katie Warden. “It’s a safe and responsible way to clear out medications you no longer need, especially after a loved one passes away or when prescriptions go unused.”
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The West Virginia State Police will also be hosting a collection site during the same hours at 3828 Staunton Turnpike in Parkersburg.
A Vital Tool in the Fight Against Opioid Misuse
Led by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Take Back Day happens twice a year and plays a crucial role in reducing the number of opioids and other potentially dangerous medications in American homes. Since its launch in 2010, the program has safely collected and destroyed nearly 10,000 tons of prescription medications nationwide.
West Virginia Attorney General JB McCuskey stressed the life-saving potential of the initiative:
“Take Back Day helps keep potentially deadly drugs out of our neighborhoods. It’s one of the best ways to prevent misuse and protect our communities,” McCuskey said.
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Dozens of Drop-Off Sites in West Virginia
More than 60 locations across southern West Virginia will participate this weekend, including sites in Beckley, Oceana, and Charleston. These efforts are being supported through the state’s Dispose Responsibly of Prescriptions (DRoP) program, which has helped equip communities with incinerators and drop boxes for year-round disposal.
A Community Effort in Marietta
In Marietta, the program almost faced financial setbacks in recent years. However, thanks to local recovery advocate Cathy Harper, a grant was secured to fund the initiative, covering overtime pay for officers.
“This program would not be happening without Cathy,” said Chief Warden. “She wrote the grant that keeps this vital service running.”
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What You Can Bring
Residents can drop off:
- Tablets
- Capsules
- Patches
- Other solid prescription medications
Please note:
- No syringes, sharps, or illegal drugs will be accepted
- Sealed liquid medications, such as cough syrup, are accepted if they’re in original containers with tight lids
Final Thoughts
Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa G. Johnston emphasized the long-term value of participation:
“Every household that takes part is helping make their community safer. Proper medication disposal can prevent misuse—and even save lives.”
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This Saturday, make a difference. Clean out your medicine cabinets and join your neighbors in protecting your community from prescription drug misuse.
