January 29, 2016
Contact: Tim Connolly 508-368-7236
Or 508-688-5565
NORTHBRIDGE – Worcester County District Attorney Joseph D. Early Jr. presented a check to town officials this week to pay for a drop box for unused prescription medicines.
Drop boxes are a convenient and safe way to dispose of unused and unwanted prescription medicine. Getting these drugs out of medicine cabinets and out of the homes reduces possibility that the medications will fall into the wrong hands and be abused. Prescription pain medications are often sought by people who have become addicted to opioids.
“Drop boxes are a great idea especially during the current opioid epidemic,” said Mr. Early. “Often times after surgery you will get a prescription for pain medication, but you might not use all of the pills. Bringing the remaining pills to a drop box is a good way to safely get rid of the drugs.”
The drop box, in the lobby of the police station at 1 Hope St., has been getting “pretty good use” during the past three weeks, according to Police Chief Walter J. Warchol. Mr. Early donated $866 from a federal Hal Rogers grant to pay for the drop box. He presented the check to Chief Warchol and Town Manager Ted Kozak at the station this week.
“We’re lucky to have a district attorney like Joe Early,” said Chief Warchol. “He is so community oriented. This contribution is a perfect example of his commitment to the communities of Worcester County.”
The District Attorney’s Office received a two-year $400,000 Hal Rogers grant to collect data for developing strategies to combat the opioid abuse and overdose epidemic. Funding drop boxes for communities is among permitted uses of the funds.