MANCHESTER, N.H. — National Drug Take Back day has ended.

 

Over 100 locations were open in New Hampshire for the event Saturday collecting unwanted or unused prescription drugs to ensure they don't end up in the wrong hands.

 

"Most people start using drugs with pills," said New Hampshire Drug Czar David Mara. "It's such an integral part of the problem."

 

Police battle the drug crisis on the streets, but it's up to the community to do their part and help properly dispose of unused medication.

 

"We know there's crimes occurring where people are breaking into homes just to steal this stuff. We know that workers are going into homes and they're looking through medicine cabinets or worse, your own children or friends of your children. That's the last thing any of us want," said DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Jon DeLena.

 

The event happens twice ever year.

 

"Last time we did this we had over 700 pounds just in Manchester alone," Manchester Police Lt. Brian O'Keefe said.

 

Police in Raymond saw a good turnout too after putting out a town-wide announcement Friday night.

 

The Raymond Coalition for Youth partnered with police to collect the drugs. Many who visited shared their own stories.

 

"Some people have lost loved ones, some people have survived cancer, some people have beat addiction," said Celeste Clark of the Raymond Coalition for Youth.

 

Many police departments also use the event as a community outreach day so people of all ages can connect with officers and be educated on how they can combat the drug crisis.

 

"This is a great opportunity to come out and share the experience with the community and get the dangerous drugs into a place that they'll be disposed of properly," said Manchester Mayor Joyce Craig.

 

Link: https://www.wmur.com/article/granite-staters-turn-in-unwanted-medication-on-national-drug-take-back-day/20094144