Have unwanted prescription drugs? The Sarasota Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) are giving the public an opportunity to get rid of them in a safe way.

  • Drop off unwanted prescription drugs Saturday at Sarasota Police Department
  • Medicines that sit in home cabinets-highly susceptible to diversion, misuse and abuse
  • Don’t throw old medicine in garbage or flush down the toilet

On Saturday, April 30, 2016 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. residents are asked to bring pills for disposal to the front lobby of the Sarasota Police Department, 2099 Adams Lane, Sarasota. 

(The DEA cannot accept liquids or needles or sharps; only pills or patches.) The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.

This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. Medicines that sit in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse and abuse.

Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet.

In addition, Americans are now advised that their usual methods for disposing of unused medicines flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash both pose potential safety and health hazards.

Other Law Enforcement Drop Off Locations in Sarasota County:

  • 2071 Ringling Boulevard (Sarasota); Sarasota County Sheriff's Office
  • 2099 Adams Lane; Sarasota Police Department
  • 501 College Drive; New College Police Department
  • 1350 Ridgewood Avenue; Venice Police Department
  • 4531 State Road 776 (Venice); Sarasota County Sheriff's Office
  • 4980 City Hall Boulevard; North Port Police Department

All locations with the exception of New College Police Department have permanent drop boxes.