SHERIFF CARMINE MARCENO’S MAY 2025 SAFETY & SECURITY TIP: OPERATION MEDICINE CABINET

Many are unaware of the fact that a significant percentage of individuals that are abusing prescription opiates obtain these drugs from their own homes, the homes of family members and/or the homes of friends.

In the United States, in 2023, approximately 8.6 million individuals reported misusing prescription opioids. Once again, that statistic only represents “reported” abuse.

“Drug Free Lee” is working diligently to educate residents of these dangers and to help secure and/or dispose of these medications.

“Operation Medicine Cabinet is a program supported by the United Way of Lee, Hendry and Glades Counties,” stated Deb Comella, Executive Director Coalition for a Drug-Free Southwest Florida. “The program educates Lee County citizens on the importance of proper disposal of prescription medications, both to prevention diversion, and to keep our waterways clean and safe.  Data indicates that 52% of those abusing prescription drugs for the first time get them from friends and relatives, and we want to get those medications locked up and disposed of properly when they are no longer needed.”

We remind residents to avoid flushing medications and/or disposing of them down bathroom/kitchen drains as this eventually winds up in our rivers, lakes and our drinking water. This also poses a tremendous risk to wildlife and can contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Local law enforcement agencies have specialized lock-boxes that are used to receive discarded medications. We encourage residents wishing to safely discard medications to contact their nearest law enforcement location.

“The DEA and area Law Enforcement sponsor take back days twice each year, in April and in October.  Drug Free Lee coordinates a Deterra Bag distribution event, which provides an in-home disposal system,” Comella shared.

Reasonably believing that our medications are safe to store in our medicine cabinets and drawers, we unintentionally provide access to those who are abusing these drugs. Additionally, this creates a serious hazard when young children have access to these locations.

Those storing prescription medications should consider the use of a medication lock-box. Priced from as low as $17, these boxes are an excellent way to prevent theft and/or accidental consumption of your medications.

For “Operation Medicine Cabinet” events, please visit www.drugfreelee.org.