(COLUMBUS, Ohio) – Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine and representatives from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and the Outdoor Advertising Association of Ohio today announced this year's first National Take Back Drug Day on April 28, 2012. In addition the Attorney General announced a campaign with several statewide associations to distribute posters to their members to help remind Ohioans how to report prescription drug abusers.
"Prescription drugs getting into the wrong hands can do tremendous harm," said Attorney General DeWine. "By participating in the Take Back Drug Day at the end of the month, Ohioans can ensure that their unused prescription drugs are disposed of properly."
Since taking office in 2011, Attorney General DeWine has committed resources to fight the growing problem of prescription drug abuse in Ohio. Efforts include:
- Seizure of more than 54,000 prescription pills valued at more than $1.5 million.
- A total of 14 so-called "pill mill" doctors have had their licenses permanently revoked.
- More than a half dozen pill mill cases are ongoing, with more than two dozen defendants in various regions of Ohio.
- Special prosecutors convicted seven people who were improperly prescribing, dispensing and diverting prescription drugs.
- Two additional prosecutors assigned to specifically focus on prescription drug diversion throughout Ohio.
- More than 1,000 law enforcement officers have received training on the scope of the prescription drug problem.
To participate in the National Take Back Drug Day, Ohioans can go to www.dea.gov to find a disposal spot where they can safely hand over unwanted prescription medications. The DEA is partnering with agents from the Ohio Attorney General's Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) to assist at the drop off locations.
In addition the Attorney General is partnering with several statewide associations including the Ohio Chamber of Commerce, Ohio Children's Hospital Association, The Ohio Council of Retail Merchants, Ohio Grocers Association, Ohio Hospital Association, Ohio Pharmacists Association and the Ohio State Medical Association. The poster campaign reminds Ohioans that one phone call to 855-BCI-OHIO could save someone's life.
"I am pleased that we have partnered with these statewide associations to help get the word out to their members about this problem," added DeWine.
A copy of the poster can be found on the Attorney General's website.
Media Contacts:
Lisa Peterson-Hackley: 614-466-3840
Jill DelGreco: 614-466-3840