Columbus Police Launch Secure Drug Drop Box for Safe Medication Disposal

In a move to help reduce drug misuse and protect the environment, the Columbus Police Department has unveiled a secure Prescription Drug Drop Box at its downtown headquarters.

The drop box, located in the lobby of 510 10th Street, is available to the public Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., excluding official holidays. The service is free and anonymous, allowing residents to safely dispose of unused, expired, or unwanted medications.

“Proper medication disposal is a critical measure in preventing drug misuse, accidental ingestion, and environmental harm,” the department said in a written statement. “Through this initiative, the Columbus Police Department reaffirms its commitment to fostering a safer, healthier community for all residents.”

Local residents are welcoming the initiative.

“I think it’s a smart move,” said Angela Rice, a nurse and Columbus resident. “Too many people leave old prescriptions lying around, and that’s how kids or others end up misusing them. This gives people a safe option.”

Local parents say the drop box offers them a peace of mind.

“As a mother, I’m glad we now have somewhere safe to drop off medications we no longer need,” said Jasona Hill, who lives in the East Columbus area. “It’s one less risk inside the home.”

The initiative also aims to prevent harmful environmental effects. Improper disposal—like flushing medications down the toilet or tossing them in the trash—can contaminate water supplies and soil.

“People don’t always realize how their medicine affects the environment after it leaves their house,” said Deon Carter, a local environmental science student at Columbus State University. “I’m glad the city is taking steps to address that.”

Residents using the drop box are asked to follow a few basic guidelines:

• Leave medications in their original containers when possible.
• Place containers in a sealed plastic bag before depositing.
• Remove or black out any personal information on labels.

The Columbus Police Department encourages all residents to take advantage of the program and help reduce the risk of prescription drug abuse in the community.

For more information, residents can call the department at 706-225-3205.