Mission Viejo collects more than 720 pounds of drugs during National Prescription Take-Back Day

Residents dropped off more than 720 pounds of unused medications during the annual National Prescription Medication Take-Back Day Saturday, October 28. An agent from the Drug Enforcement Administration, Sheriff’s Department personnel and Explorer Scouts were on hand to assist residents who dropped off their unused and unwanted prescription medications at Mission Viejo City Hall. 

"At the last Take-Back Day, we collected 375 pounds of medication, so 720 pounds is a sizeable increase," said Crime Prevention Specialist Paula Monical.

The City of Mission Viejo started hosting the annual event in 2012 and collected 165 pounds of unwanted and expired prescription medications that first year.

"Throughout the event, privacy for those dropping off medication is always maintained," Paula said.  "All medication collected is placed in boxes which are sealed shut as they fill.  Those boxes are then transported and incinerated in their entirety."