Marlboro Police Unveil Permanent Prescription Drop-Box

The Marlboro Township Police Department unveiled its new permanent prescription drop-box on Tuesday night, which is available to residents 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

The box, in partnership with the Division of Consumer Affairs and the Office of the Attorney General, signifies the township's ongoing relationship with the Prescription Drug Take Back program in New Jersey.

The police department annually collects unused, unwanted and expired prescription drugs which it disposes of through state resources. Now, residents can use the drop box in the police station lobby.

"We are very hopeful this will serve a purpose in this town," Police Chief Bruce Hall said. 

According to Hall, disposing of prescription drugs through the garbage of by flushing can lead to an environmental hazard, including contaminated drinking water.

"It's another benefit for Marlboro," said Mayor Jon Hornik.

Nancy Geist of the Marlboro Alliance said having a drop-off point could prevent prescription drugs from getting into the wrong hands.

"It is our hope, of course, that they medicine will not fall into the hands of those who should not have them."

The program began based on national studies about the rising misuse of prescription painkillers. According to the news release, between 2004 and 2008, the number of visits to the hospital involving the non-medical use of narcotic painkillers increased 111 percent.

"This is a great outlet and it contributes to the safety of our community," said Councilman Scott Metzger.

While the drop-off is within the police department, drop-offs are anonymous and no questions will be asked of residents using the box.

Accepted items:  

• unused and expired prescription medications
• prescription cough syrup
• prescription eye and ear drips
• unused and expired over the counter medications

Unacceptable items:

• hypodermic needles
• medical waste
• mercury thermometers
• illegal drugs or paraphernalia

Please remove the prescription label on the original prescription container if it contains any personal identifying information.