By Garrett Christensen on Tuesday, April 25th, 2023 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
LA GRANDE – (Information from the La Grande Police Department) The La Grande Police Department (LGPD) held its bi-annual drug take back event on Saturday, April 22. At the end of four hours, the LGPD collected 30lbs worth of old and unwanted prescription drugs. In addition, staff also collaborated with the Center for Human Development (CHD) to give out free Narcan kits. Though Saturday’s haul was overall lower than the average 86lbs the department usually bring in, LGPD Lieutenant Jason Hays commented, “the citizens were very appreciative of this event and appreciate it being a service offered by the La Grande Police Department.” Hays also cited this year’s lower collection to the increased number of year-round drop off locations available compared to previous years.
Speaking of which, the LGPD also reported a total of 218lbs worth of turn-ins at the police station drug drop box for 2022. Since setting up the box in 2013, the LGPD collected an average of 122lbs of prescription drugs each year. For those that may have missed the drug take back day, the drug drop box can be accessed at any time in the police department lobby.