Above, Stevens Point Police Assistant Chief Tom Zenner holds one of the dozens of bags containing collected prescription drugs. (City-Times photo)

of the For the City-Times

Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen and Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Secretary Cathy Stepp want to remind Wisconsinites to participate in this Saturday’s National Prescription Drug “Take-Back” Day, which is scheduled to run from 10 AM to 2 PM in communities across Wisconsin.    

Locally, prescription drugs can be dropped off at the Stevens Point Police Department, Plover Police Department and the Portage County Sheriff’s Office.

“It’s estimated that more than two-thirds of people who misuse prescription drugs get them from friends and family, who may be unaware their unused medications have gone missing,” Van Hollen said.  “Help prevent prescription drug diversion by getting rid of your unwanted prescription medications this Saturday.  This simple action may end up saving a life.”

“We are proud that Wisconsin was one of the nation’s leaders in the safe return of these medications in 2014,” said DNR Secretary Cathy Stepp. “The annual ‘Take-Back’ program sponsored by the DEA and DOJ does a tremendous job of collecting and safely disposing of the state’s unused and unwanted prescription drugs.  The improper disposal of prescription drugs is a threat to our state’s natural resources and to public health, and the Drug ‘Take-Back’ Day does wonders to counteract those dangers.”

The Wisconsin Department of Justice is airing television and radio spots this month to highlight the link between prescription drugs and Heroin, and to promote “Take-Back” Day.  You can view and share the TV spot by clicking here.  The spot is part of the Department’s “Fly Effect” Heroin prevention public awareness campaign launched last fall.

Earlier this year, during April’s National Prescription Drug “Take-Back” Day, Wisconsin residents dropped off 25 tons (50,485 lbs.) of unwanted, expired or unused prescription drugs at 200 collection sites statewide.  According to the DEA, which coordinates the biannual “Take-Back” events nationwide, Wisconsin ranked third in the nation in the total amount collected, trailing only California and Texas.

In addition to the many local law enforcement agencies that participate as drop-off sites for residents, the Wisconsin State Patrol, Wisconsin National Guard and special agents with the Department of Justice – Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) assist with “Take-Back” efforts.

The Fly Effect

Last fall, Attorney General Van Hollen joined local law enforcement, first responders, community leaders and others to introduce the multimedia campaign to educate teens, young adults and others about Heroin.  Law enforcement, community groups, families and others are encouraged to view and to share The Fly Effect videos and materials in their prevention efforts.  Visit TheFlyEffect.com for more information about Heroin, personal stories and treatment resources.  Downloadable materials (including posters, brochures, fact sheets and other resources) from The Fly Effect also are available at the DOJ’s website at www.doj.state.wi.us.