The Pine Bluff Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Unit is organizing a drug take‑back event on Saturday, October 24, to help families keep their homes safe from accidental poisonings and prescription‑drug misuse. The free, secure drop‑off will be held at Leon’s Catfish & Steak, located at 2801 S. Camden Road, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Why the event matters
Unused or expired prescription medications pose a serious risk when left unsecured. Children can mistakenly ingest pills, and unwanted drugs can be diverted for non‑medical use. By providing a convenient, law‑enforcement‑run collection point, the department aims to reduce accidental poisonings, overdoses, and illicit drug abuse in the community.
What to bring
Residents are asked to bring any prescription medication that is no longer needed, including pills, capsules, liquids, and inhalers. Over‑the‑counter products are not accepted. All items should be placed in their original containers, if possible, and sealed in a bag before dropping them off. The police will handle the proper disposal in accordance with state and federal regulations.
Official guidance
“Never share prescription medications with others, and always follow recommended disposal guidelines,” said John Worthen, Public Information Specialist for the Pine Bluff Police Department. “By cleaning out your medicine cabinet and disposing of unwanted medications properly, you can help protect your loved ones and make our community a safer place for everyone.”
How the program works
The take‑back event is part of a broader, ongoing drug‑take‑back program coordinated by the Arkansas Department of Health and local law‑enforcement agencies. Collected medications are sent to a licensed disposal facility where they are rendered unusable, preventing them from entering the illegal drug market or harming unsuspecting family members.
Community impact
When residents participate, they reduce the chance that children will accidentally ingest a medication and lower the likelihood that unused drugs will be misused by friends or strangers. The event also supports the department’s broader mission to combat drug trafficking and protect public health.
Additional resources
For more information about the Pine Bluff drug take‑back program, residents can visit the Pine Bluff Police Department’s website or contact the Vice and Narcotics Unit directly. The department encourages anyone with questions about safe medication disposal to reach out.
By coming together on Oct. 24, Pine Bluff families can take a proactive step toward a healthier, safer community.
Original reporting: KATV Little Rock (local) — read the source article.
